Death on the Daily

I am joined today by Dr Mekel Harris to explore the complexities of grief, debunking the myths and speaking to the importance of presence and humanity in supporting those who are grieving. We discuss the societal challenges surrounding grief, including the pressure to return to normalcy and the lack of adequate support in workplaces. Mekel shares personal experiences and insights on how to navigate grief, the significance of yielding to emotions, and the transformative potential of embracing grief as a lifelong companion.TakeawaysGrief is often misunderstood as a linear process, but it is non-linear and complex.The 5 stages of grief model was originally intended for those who are dying, not for the bereaved.Presence is a powerful tool in supporting those who are grieving.We live in a pain-avoidant society that often neglects the needs of grieving individuals.Grief can manifest in various ways, including physical symptoms and emotional distress.Creating space for grief in workplaces is essential for employee well-being.Grief can serve as an invitation for personal transformation and self-discovery.Practicing stillness and being present with one's emotions can help in the grieving process.Normalising our humanity in professional settings can foster better connections and support.Grief is a lifelong companion that requires ongoing acknowledgment and care.Disclaimer: This podcast is for entertainment purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Nor is it a substitute for professional support. Connect with Dr Mekel Harris, her work, writing and grief resources to support your journey here: https://www.instagram.com/drmekelFollow Death on the Daily:Don’t forget to rate, review and subscribe to this podcast. Plus I always love to hear from you, so please do drop a comment or message to me here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/death_onthedailyYouTube: http://youtube.com/@deathonthedaily The theme music for Death on the Daily is ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Set Free by Katie Gray⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, which is used with artist's permission. You can connect with Katie and her music and work here ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.katiegray.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. This podcast is edited by David Strutt, who you can contact here for any editing needs: davidstrutt2@gmail.comChapters00:00: Understanding Grief: The Myth of Stages05:07: The Complexity of Grief and Its Non-Linear Nature10:08: The Power of Presence in Grief Support15:01: Navigating Grief in a Fast-Paced World19:48: The Importance of Humanity in Work Culture25:13: Invitations from Grief: Embracing Transformation29:55: Softening Through Grief: Yielding to Emotions35:13: Creating Space for Grief in Society39:48: Final Reflections: Notes to Self and Moving Forward

After the stillbirth of my daughter Ngākau Raiona, I returned home to an empty house and prepared for a final goodbye with her woodland burial ceremony.In today’s episode, I share my deeply personal journey of grief. With the complexities of returning home after losing someone so beloved, the importance of community, and the ongoing nature of grief. Plus the significance of rituals, and the healing that has come from connecting with nature and honouring my daughter's legacy. Grief is a lifelong journey, filled with both pain and love. If you’re navigating your grief journey - I am sending you so much love. Key takeaways:Grief is a complex journey where love and loss are intertwined.Returning home after a loss can feel empty and heavy.Community support is vital in navigating grief.Sharing stories helps in processing grief and finding comfort.The act of speaking about loss can be cathartic and healing.Cocooning is essential for self-care during grief.Rituals can provide a sense of connection and honour for the deceased.Grief is not linear; it oscillates between pain and moments of clarity.Nature can be a source of healing and connection during grief.Grief is a lifelong journey that transforms but never fully disappears.Disclaimer: This podcast is for entertainment purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Nor is it a substitute for professional support. Follow Death on the Daily:Don’t forget to rate, review and subscribe to this podcast. Plus I always love to hear from you, so please do drop a comment or message to me here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/death_onthedailyYouTube: http://youtube.com/@deathonthedaily The theme music for Death on the Daily is ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Set Free by Katie Gray⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, which is used with artist's permission. You can connect with Katie and her music and work here ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.katiegray.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. This podcast is edited by David Strutt, who you can contact here for any editing needs: davidstrutt2@gmail.comChapters00:00: The Journey of Loss: Tanya's Personal Story05:01: Navigating Grief: The Importance of Community10:02: The Power of Storytelling in Grief15:09: Cocooning: The Healing Process After Loss19:49: Creating a Legacy: Honouring my daughter. 25:03: The Woodland Burial: A Beautiful Farewell29:50: Life After Loss: Continuing the Journey of Grief

Today I’m sharing my personal journey through grief following the death and stillbirth of my daughter, Ngākau Raiona. I share the profound lessons that my daughter has taught me. Including the importance of embracing death and impermanence as a part of life, and the power of presence in navigating grief. My intention is to encourage you to find what presence you can (with no pressure) in death and grief. Gently touching these tender topics, to help you to find a deeper understanding of life and love. When we share in our stories, we see that we are not alone. If this episode might support someone you know who is going through similar - then please do share this with them. Key takeaways: Death is a fundamental part of life that we must embrace.Grief can be a catalyst for finding deeper meaning and joy.Speaking our truth about loss is essential for healing.Presence in the moment can unlock profound insights during grief.The fear of losing a child is a universal experience for parents.Creating a birth and death plan can bring meaning to a traumatic experience.Journaling can be a powerful tool for processing grief.Connection to nature can provide grounding during difficult times.The impermanence of life teaches us to cherish the present.Resilience can be cultivated through the experience of loss.Disclaimer: This podcast is for entertainment purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Nor is it a substitute for professional support. Follow Death on the Daily:Want to support me? Don’t forget to rate, review and subscribe to this podcast. Plus I'd love to connect over on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/death_onthedailyYou can also find me on YouTube: http://youtube.com/@deathonthedaily The theme music for Death on the Daily is ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Set Free by Katie Gray⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, which is used with artist's permission. You can connect with Katie and her music and work here ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.katiegray.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. This podcast is edited by David Strutt, who you can contact here for any editing needs: davidstrutt2@gmail.comChapters: 00:00: Embracing the Conversation on Death02:47: My Personal Journey of Grief05:52: The Fear of Losing a Child08:46: Finding Presence in Grief11:57: The Journey of Pregnancy14:50: The 20-Week Scan and Diagnosis18:08: Receiving Devastating News21:03: The Long Walk of Heartbreak23:56: A Promise to Her Daughter28:52: The Gift of Presence in Grief37:16: Creating Meaning Through Rituals48:28: Lessons from Loss and Grief52:18: Intention and Presence in Healing

Welcome to this 10 minute guided meditation designed to help you soften, let go, return to your body and connect into restful intention. Whether you're navigating stress, grief, burnout, or simply need a moment of stillness - this practice will invite in deep rest and reconnection. Your permission slip to pause and breathe. No expectations. Just space to land. Find somewhere comfortable, press play, and allow yourself to receive. I hope that you can flow forwards from this meditation with restful intention. Are you new here? Subscribe for more soul-soothing practices and real talk about grief, rest and living well.Disclaimer: This podcast is for entertainment purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Nor is it a substitute for professional support. Follow Death on the Daily:Do Like, Comment & Subscribe to this channel. Plus share this meditation with a friend who needs it. Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/death_onthedaily YouTube: http://youtube.com/@deathonthedaily This meditation is edited by David Strutt, who you can contact here for any editing needs: davidstrutt2@gmail.com

Today’s episode is a deeply personal one. I share the grief journaling practice that has been my steady companion through heartbreak, grief and growth. From stream-of-consciousness writing to letters for lost loved ones, we’ll explores why journaling works - and how to begin when the words just won’t come.You’ll also be guided through a gentle journaling session, with prompts to help you meet yourself where you are. Just push pause after the prompt and journal for as long as you wish. Whether you’re grieving or simply moving through something tender, this episode offers space to breathe, reflect, and feel. No fancy notebooks required - just your truth and any pen & paper to write it down with.In This Episode, You'll Learn:Why journaling supports emotional regulation and resilience in griefThe science-backed benefits of expressive writingHow to use different types of journaling: stream-of-consciousness, memory writing, gratitude, and letters to loved onesWhat to do when you don’t know what to sayA simple breath + heart practice to beginJournal Prompts from the Episode:How am I really feeling today?What do I want to tell my loved one? Write a letter to them.What am I grateful for right now?What memory is asking to be remembered?Mentioned in This Episode:Episode 1 of Death on the Daily podcast - the death of our daughter, my grief story The Artist’s Way by Julia CameronDisclaimer: This podcast is for entertainment purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Nor is it a substitute for professional support. Follow Death on the Daily:Don’t forget to rate, review and subscribe to this podcast. Plus I always love to hear from you, so please do drop a comment or message to over on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/death_onthedailyYouTube: http://youtube.com/@deathonthedaily The theme music for Death on the Daily is ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Set Free by Katie Gray⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, which is used with artist's permission. You can connect with Katie and her music and work here ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.katiegray.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. This podcast is edited by David Strutt, who you can contact here for any editing needs: davidstrutt2@gmail.comChapters0:00: The Power of Journaling in Grief02:45: Understanding the Science Behind Journaling05:48: Exploring Different Journaling Practices11:59: Overcoming Barriers to Journaling14:50: Commitment to Lifelong Journaling

Today I’m exploring the profound impact of presence in navigating grief and difficult life circumstances - and everyday life in general!Drawing from my personal experiences with the death of my daughter and my grief, she emphasises the importance of being fully present, both for ourselves and others, as a means to foster emotional healing and connection. I share practical strategies for cultivating presence in daily life, including mindfulness practices and reflection rituals, ultimately highlighting how embracing presence can lead to deeper self-awareness and compassion.Key takeawaysPresence is the greatest gift we can give to others.Setting an intention for presence can help us stay present during difficult times.Grief can teach us about the depth of our love.Being present allows us to feel the full spectrum of emotions.Micro moments of presence can accumulate to create significant change.Breath is a powerful tool for anchoring ourselves in the present.Practicing presence can help us navigate our feelings without judgment.Reflection rituals can deepen our understanding of our emotions.We often avoid difficult feelings, but presence allows us to face them.Presence is a practice that requires intentionality and commitment.Disclaimer: This podcast is for entertainment purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Nor is it a substitute for professional support. Follow Death on the Daily:Don’t forget to rate, review and subscribe to this podcast. Plus I always love to hear from you, so please do drop a comment or message to me here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/death_onthedailyYouTube: http://youtube.com/@deathonthedaily The theme music for Death on the Daily is ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Set Free by Katie Gray⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, which is used with artist's permission. You can connect with Katie and her music and work here ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.katiegray.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. This podcast is edited by David Strutt, who you can contact here for any editing needs: davidstrutt2@gmail.comChapters00:00: Personal Journeys with Grief03:22: Understanding Presence08:07: Practicing Presence Daily16:56: Reflection and Gratitude

I am joined today by Dr. Martha Calihan, who shares her profound journey with her husband Charles as he faced terminal illness.We speak to the importance of open conversations about death, the integration of personal and professional roles during illness, and the value of palliative care. Emphasising the need for cultural shifts in how we approach death and grief - and the empowerment that comes from discussing end-of-life wishes with family. Through our personal experiences, we highlight the beauty of love, presence, and the lessons learned from embracing our mortality. Including the clarity that comes from honest conversations about dying, and the lifelong journey of grief. Key takeawaysDeath is a part of life that we must accept.Open conversations about death can be empowering.Palliative care should be accessed earlier in the process.Hope and truth can coexist in discussions about dying.Cultural attitudes towards death need to change.Family involvement in end-of-life discussions is crucial.Clear communication about end-of-life wishes alleviates burdens.Mindfulness helps in staying present during painful experiences.Grief is a lifelong journey that evolves over time.Talking about death should be normalised in society.The beauty of life is intertwined with the pain of loss.Grief should be acknowledged and expressed, not avoided.Legacy is built through the lessons learned from loss.Disclaimer: This podcast is for entertainment purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Nor is it a substitute for professional support. Follow Death on the Daily:Don’t forget to rate, review and subscribe to this podcast wherever you get your podcasts - it REALLY helps me in my mission. Plus I always love to hear from you, so please do drop a comment or message to me here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/death_onthedailyI'm also over on YouTube: http://youtube.com/@deathonthedaily You can find out more about Dr Martha Calihan, her work and book “A Death Lived” on her website:www.fivestoneswellness.com/adeathlivedOrder her book “A Death Lived” here (international shipping is available):store.bookbaby.com/book/a-death-livedOr it’s also available on Amazon internationally. The theme music for Death on the Daily is ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Set Free by Katie Gray⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, which is used with artist's permission. You can connect with Katie and her music and work here ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.katiegray.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. This podcast is edited by David Strutt, who you can contact here for any editing needs: davidstrutt2@gmail.comChapters00:00: Facing Death and Embracing Life01:48: The Journey of Love and Loss05:52: Navigating Illness and Death11:48: Understanding Palliative Care18:12: Cultural Conversations Around Death23:56: Empowering Family Conversations29:57: The Gift of Time and Presence34:09: The Gift of Clarity in Dying39:01: Grief: A Lifelong Journey43:10: The Importance of Discussing Death46:52: Embracing the Lessons of Loss

Inspired by watching the incredible Adolescence on Netflix, in this solo episode I discuss the critical importance of emotional expression and the dangers of suppressing emotions, particularly in boys and young men. I highlight the toxic messages propagated by the manosphere and social media that label empathy and vulnerability as weaknesses. Emphasising the need for society to encourage emotional expression, teach emotional hygiene, and create safe spaces for discussing grief. Calling for a cultural shift towards embracing vulnerability and empathy as essential components of mental health and wellbeing. Plus I share simple practices of connection and empathy that we can each do. Key takeawaysEmpathy can be viewed as a weakness in today's culture.Suppressing emotions can lead to unresolved feelings and mental health issues.Crying is a natural and beneficial way to process emotions.Encouraging emotional expression can help dismantle harmful societal norms.Teaching emotional hygiene is crucial for mental well-being.Open communication is essential for understanding and supporting each other.Individual actions can create a ripple effect in promoting emotional health.Grief should be acknowledged and discussed openly.Creating safe spaces for emotional expression is vital.Vulnerability is a strength that can lead to healing.Disclaimer: This podcast is for entertainment purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Nor is it a substitute for professional support. Follow Death on the Daily:Don’t forget to rate, review and subscribe to this podcast. Plus I always love to hear from you, so please do drop a comment or message to me here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/death_onthedailyYouTube: http://youtube.com/@deathonthedaily The theme music for Death on the Daily is ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Set Free by Katie Gray⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, which is used with artist's permission. You can connect with Katie and her music and Empowered Heart work here ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠katiegray.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. This podcast is edited by David Strutt, who you can contact here for any editing needs: davidstrutt2@gmail.comChapters00:00: Intro and theme01:10: Why “Boys Don’t Cry” is so Harmful06:01: The Impact of Digital Natives on Emotional Expression12:03: Encouraging Emotional Expression in Society17:51: The Ripple Effect of Kindness and Compassion24:14: Practicing Emotional Hygiene30:02: Embracing Grief and Vulnerability

I am joined today by Micah Dawanyi to explore the profound impact of grief and loss on personal identity and growth. Plus how writing can help us in our healing journey, Micah shares his journey from being a passionate and talented soccer player to navigating a life-threatening heart condition that forced him to quit the sport. Looking to the life of storytelling that opened up beyond. We discuss the importance of self-expression, the therapeutic power of writing, and how storytelling can help normalise conversations around mental health. Micah's personal experiences inspire his novels, which tackle themes of trauma, healing, loss of identity and the complexities of grief. We delve into the complexities of grief, identity loss, and the journey of self-discovery. Encouraging you to embrace your unique journeys. With a journaling practice to help you. TakeawaysDeath shows up for us in many ways, including when change is forced upon us and loss of identity.Writing can be a therapeutic outlet for grief.Grief can be a catalyst for new beginnings.Mental health conversations need to be normalised.We must give ourselves grace in our healing journeys.Grief can take many forms, not just the tangible ones.It's important to validate your emotions during times of change.Life transitions often require a long process of self-discovery.We are multidimensional beings with various aspects of identity.Patience is essential in personal growth and creativity.Don't rush the process of finding your purpose.Disclaimer: This podcast is for entertainment purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Nor is it a substitute for professional support. Follow Death on the Daily:Don’t forget to rate, review and subscribe to this podcast. Plus I always love to hear from you, so please do drop a comment or message to me here: Instagram: instagram.com/death_onthedaily YouTube: youtube.com/@deathonthedaily All the ways you can connect with Micah Dawanyi are here:  linktr.ee/micahdawanyiThe theme music for Death on the Daily is ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Set Free by Katie Gray⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, which is used with artist's permission. You can connect with Katie and her music and work here ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.katiegray.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. This podcast is edited by David Strutt, who you can contact here for any editing needs: davidstrutt2@gmail.comChapters00:00: Introduction and theme02:10: Navigating Loss: Micah's Story05:51: Understanding Grief Beyond Death09:41: The Role of Writing in Healing12:04: Rebirth and New Foundations16:05: The Power of Storytelling in Mental Health22:02: Exploring Battle Scars and Blossoms31:48: When the Record Stops Spinning: Music and Healing33:12: Exploring Grief and Identity Loss36:26: Navigating Change and Emotional Validation39:09: The Journey of Self-Discovery42:15: Understanding Multidimensional Identity45:24: Cultivating Balance in Life49:44: Finding Your Creative Spark52:41: The Importance of Patience and Personal Timeline

In today’s solo episode, we’re exploring the concept of boundaries, and their importance in personal growth and self care. Sharing my own journey of understanding and setting boundaries, the impact of societal norms on boundary-setting, and practical steps for you to be able to identify and communicate your own boundaries. I hope you’ll leave this episode seeing boundary setting as a radical act of self love that fosters healthier relationships and a more fulfilling life.Key takeawaysBoundaries are essential for thriving in a fast paced world.We often learn to be unboundaried from childhood.Setting boundaries is a practice.Boundaries help protect our time, energy and personal space.There are different types of boundaries including physical, emotional and time.Communicating boundaries is crucial for them to be effective.Consistency is key in maintaining boundaries.Setting boundaries is an act of self love.Reflecting on where you feel drained can help identify needed boundaries.Disclaimer: This podcast is for entertainment purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Nor is it a substitute for professional support. Follow Death on the Daily:Don’t forget to rate, review and subscribe to this podcast. Plus I always love to hear from you, so please do drop a comment or message to me here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/death_onthedaily YouTube: http://youtube.com/@deathonthedaily The theme music for Death on the Daily is ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Set Free by Katie Gray⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, which is used with artist's permission. You can connect with Katie and her music and work here ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.katiegray.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. This podcast is edited by David Strutt, who you can contact here for any editing needs: davidstrutt2@gmail.comChapters00:00: The Journey of Setting Boundaries03:46: Understanding Boundaries and Their Importance09:01: Types of Boundaries: Physical, Emotional, and More13:51: How to Set and Maintain Boundaries16:09: Final Thoughts on Boundaries and Self-Love