Healing Starts with the Heart

Welcome to the Healing Starts with the Heart podcast! Get ready to embark on a journey of healing and self-discovery with your host, Sharon Brubaker. Sharon is a Grief Specialist and the proud owner of the Grief School, a unique place where individuals can learn the essential skills to navigate the grieving process. In this podcast, Sharon will guide you through the ups and downs of grief and offer valuable insights and techniques to help you heal. Whether you've experienced the loss of a loved one, a significant life change, or any form of emotional pain, Sharon's expertise and compassionate approach will support you every step of the way. With her extensive knowledge and experience, Sharon has dedicated her life to helping others find solace and growth amidst grief. Her profound understanding of the human heart and the healing power it holds will inspire you to embrace your emotions and embark on a transformative journey. Tune in to the Healing Starts with the Heart podcast and join Sharon Brubaker as she shares her wisdom, stories, and practical tools to help you navigate the challenging path of grief. Together, we will discover that healing truly starts with the heart.

Lessons Learned Through Grieving As A Mother 12/19/2024

The First Step in Healing 12/12/2024

Shattered Trust: Finding Hope in Grief 12/05/2024

Shattered Trust: Finding Hope in Grief Episode Title: Shattered Trust: Finding Hope in Grief Episode Description: In this heartfelt episode of Healing Starts with a Heart, grief specialist Sharon Brubaker delves into the complex and little-discussed topic of grooming in the context of grief. Grievers are often in a state of heightened emotional vulnerability, which can make them susceptible to predatory behavior. Sharon sits down with guest Sherry Young, who bravely shares her personal experience of being groomed and scammed during her grieving process. Together, they explore the tactics used by groomers, the emotional toll it takes, and how to recognize and protect oneself from such situations. Key Points Discussed: What is Grooming? An explanation of grooming and its psychological impact on individuals, especially those who are grieving. Grooming vs. Scamming: The Link How grooming often serves as a precursor to financial or emotional exploitation. Personal Story: Sherry's Journey Sherry candidly shares her experience of being groomed and scammed after personal loss, shedding light on the subtle ways groomers build trust. Recognizing the Red Flags Key behaviors to watch for when forming new relationships during times of grief. The Role of Community and Support Why having a strong support system can help shield against vulnerability. Healing After Betrayal How to process the emotional scars of being groomed and reclaim your sense of trust and security. Journal Questions: Have you ever felt unusually drawn to someone who later let you down? What made them seem trustworthy at first? Reflect on a time you ignored a gut feeling about someone. What happened, and how did it shape your view of intuition? In what ways do you ensure your emotional safety when meeting new people, especially during vulnerable periods? What can you do to build a strong support system to rely on during times of emotional distress? How can you reclaim your narrative and strength after experiencing emotional manipulation? Conclusion: This episode emphasizes the importance of trusting your instincts, leaning on your support network, and recognizing your worth, even during grief. Healing from loss is challenging enough—understanding and avoiding manipulation is a critical step in safeguarding your emotional journey. Follow Us: Website: Facebook: Healing Starts with the Heart Instagram: @healatthegriefschool Contact Us: Email: Thank you for tuning in! Join us next time as we continue uncovering insights and strategies to help you heal, one step at a time. /episode/index/show/healingstartswiththeheart/id/32238902

How to Recognize and Heal Silent Grief 11/26/2024

How to Recognize and Heal Silent Grief Episode Title: How to Recognize and Heal Silent Grief Episode Description: In this episode of Healing Starts with a Heart, grief specialist Sharon Brubaker dives into the often-overlooked world of silent losses. Grief isn’t always about losing a loved one; it can stem from many other life experiences that bring deep feelings of sadness and emptiness. Sharon sheds light on the impact of silent losses, like moving away from a childhood friend, losing a job, or experiencing a broken relationship. These losses, though less recognized, can attach themselves to major grief events, amplifying pain over time. Sharon shares why it’s essential to acknowledge and grieve these silent losses to find a path toward healing and resilience. Key Points Discussed: Silent Losses Explained Grief isn’t always tied to death. Sharon explains how silent losses, such as moving away, career setbacks, or relationship changes, can have a lasting emotional impact. Why Silent Grief is Overlooked Society often doesn’t recognize or support grief outside of death. Sharon discusses why these silent losses are rarely acknowledged and why we tend to brush them aside. The Impact of Unacknowledged Losses Silent losses can connect with new grief experiences, creating a heavier emotional burden. Sharon explains how unprocessed grief can resurface unexpectedly and affect current losses. Learning to Grieve Silent Losses Sharon shares ways to recognize and validate silent losses, emphasizing the importance of fully experiencing these emotions to heal. Finding Support and Moving Forward While grieving silent losses can feel isolating, finding support—even within oneself—can help. Sharon encourages listeners to talk openly about these losses and seek support when needed. Journal Questions: What recent loss have you experienced that isn’t related to death? Which silent losses from your past still affect you today? How might acknowledging silent losses change your approach to grieving? Are there emotions tied to silent losses that you’ve kept private? What small step could you take to honor a silent loss? Conclusion: Reflect on these questions as you explore silent grief’s impact on your life. Grieving these losses may be key to finding balance, peace, and true healing. Follow Us: Website: Facebook: Healing Starts with the Heart Instagram: @healatthegriefschool Contact Us: Email: Thank you for tuning in. Join us next time for more insights on healing from grief, one step at a time. /episode/index/show/healingstartswiththeheart/id/33790507

How Grief Affects Your Whole Body 11/19/2024

Honoring Motherhood After Loss: A Conversation with Cori 11/13/2024

Ways to Handle Cumulative Grief Gently 11/05/2024

Ways to Handle Cumulative Grief Gently Episode Title: Ways to Handle Cumulative Grief Gently Episode Description: In today’s episode of Healing Starts with a Heart, grief specialist Sharon Brubaker unpacks the concept of cumulative grief and why unresolved losses from the past can intensify the pain of new ones. Sharon shares insights drawn from her own journey and years of experience with grieving clients to shed light on the overwhelming effects of grief overload. From childhood losses to recent heartbreaks, she explains how cumulative grief layers upon itself, often leaving us feeling trapped in a cycle of sorrow. This episode guides listeners on embracing their grief fully, with actionable steps for managing the waves of unresolved pain and building resilience along the way. Key Points Discussed: The Nature of Cumulative Grief Grief doesn’t operate on a timeline; it builds up over time. Sharon explains how early grief experiences, even from childhood, can resurface with each new loss, creating an overwhelming accumulation of unresolved pain. Recognizing Grief Overload Grief can feel like waves crashing repeatedly with no breathing room. Sharon discusses how grief overload occurs when we face multiple losses in a short period or hold onto grief from years past, making it feel impossible to manage. Avoiding the “Grief Detective” Mindset Instead of processing grief, some people become “grief detectives,” focusing on finding answers or blaming others as a way of avoiding painful emotions. Sharon explains how this can prolong grief and offers tips for breaking this habit. Finding a “Grief Friend” or Support Group Even when it feels easier to carry grief alone, having a “grief friend” or joining a support group can provide comfort and understanding. Sharon encourages listeners to reach out to those who truly support their grief journey. Taking Action for Healing Healing doesn’t just happen with time; it requires active steps. Sharon highlights practical actions, from journaling to creative expression, that help make space for grief, allowing it to flow rather than accumulate. Journal Questions: What early losses have you experienced that still weigh heavy on your heart? How might avoidance or “grief detective” behaviors affect your grieving process? Who in your life can be a supportive “grief friend” as you navigate cumulative grief? Reflect on a time you felt joy despite experiencing loss. What did that teach you? What is one small step you can take to begin addressing any unresolved grief? Conclusion: Reflect on these questions as you approach grief with patience and self-compassion. Remember, grief is not meant to be carried alone. Each action step you take helps build a foundation of resilience, moving you closer to peace. Follow Us: Website: Facebook: Healing Starts with the Heart Instagram: @healatthegriefschool Contact Us: Email: Thank you for joining us. Stay tuned for more episodes offering support, insight, and hope on your grief journey. /episode/index/show/healingstartswiththeheart/id/33790382

5 Things You Should Never Do While Grieving 10/29/2024

5 Things You Should Never Do While Grieving Episode Title: 5 Things to Avoid While Grieving Episode Description: In today’s episode of Healing Starts with a Heart, grief specialist Sharon Brubaker dives into five common pitfalls to steer clear of on your personal path through grief. Drawing from her own experiences and over a decade of work with grieving individuals, Sharon shares practical insights on what to avoid when navigating loss. From self-judgment to resisting emotions, she explains how letting yourself fully experience grief can lead to deeper healing and resilience. Each tip is designed to help you honor your grief journey with courage and compassion, while building a supportive foundation along the way. Key Points Discussed: Don’t Talk Yourself Out of Grieving Embrace your emotions, no matter how difficult they may feel. Sharon explains the importance of acknowledging every type of grief, whether it’s a silent loss or a life-altering heartbreak. Avoid Self-Bullying Grief isn’t a measure of strength or control. Sharon shares why it’s essential to treat yourself kindly and why self-compassion is key to healing. Don’t Lock Away the ‘Grief Monster’ Using the metaphor of a “grief monster,” Sharon explains how bottling up grief can intensify its hold. Facing the “monster” in manageable ways helps lessen its overwhelming presence. Don’t Disconnect from Your Support System Even when it feels tough to let others in, finding a supportive “grief friend” or community can provide the compassion and understanding needed for healing. Don’t Believe the Darkness Will Last Forever The journey through grief can feel unending, but Sharon offers reassurance that joy and light will return. Embracing small steps can help shift your perspective and illuminate the way forward. Journal Questions: How do you typically respond to grief? Do you find yourself talking yourself out of it or locking it away? What are some ways you can practice self-compassion during tough moments? Who in your life can be a “grief friend” and offer you support through this journey? Reflect on a time you’ve experienced unexpected joy. How did that impact your outlook? What is one small way you can start to embrace your grief and let it flow naturally? Conclusion: Reflect on these questions as you approach grief as a personal journey, free from societal expectations. Healing takes time, and with each step, you are moving closer to a life of resilience and peace. Follow Us: Website: Facebook: Healing Starts with the Heart Instagram: @healatthegriefschool Contact Us: Email: [email protected] Thank you for joining us. Stay tuned for more discussions offering support, insight, and hope on your grief journey. /episode/index/show/healingstartswiththeheart/id/33644327

Are You Truly Respecting Grief? 10/22/2024

Are You Truly Respecting Grief? Episode Title: Are You Truly Respecting Grief? Episode Description: In today's episode, we dive into the significance of respecting the grief of others. Grief is as unique as the individual experiencing it. Sharon Brubaker discusses how grief can vary based on personality, relationships, and individual circumstances. Understanding this can help us honor others’ grief without trying to fix or rush the process. Join us as we explore how respect, acknowledgment, and allowing space for grief can transform the healing journey for both the griever and their supporters. Key Points Discussed: Grief and Personality: Grief reflects your personality—whether open, reserved, or emotional, you will grieve in the way you show up in life. Just because someone is grieving doesn't mean their personality changes. Recognizing this can help others understand how to support them. Grief and Relationships: Your relationship with the deceased affects how you grieve. Whether they were a best friend, parent, or admired public figure, grief varies based on the depth of that bond. Family members often grieve differently, both in timing and expression. Respecting each individual’s grief journey is crucial to maintaining harmony. Respecting Grief: Respect is essential in supporting others. This means allowing space for grief, listening without offering solutions, and acknowledging the emotions involved. Society often fails to understand or support grief properly, but asking simple questions like "How's your grief today?" can make a significant difference. Journal Questions: How does your personality influence the way you grieve? How do the different relationships you’ve lost affect how you feel grief? How can you show respect for your own grief and the grief of those around you? What strategies can you use to support someone else’s unique grief process without trying to fix it? How can you create space for open conversations about grief with your family and friends? Conclusion: Use these questions to reflect on your grief and the grief of others. Respecting each person’s journey allows for healing in its own time and form. Whether you’re grieving or supporting a griever, creating a space of respect is crucial. Follow Us: Website: Facebook: Healing Starts with the Heart Instagram: healatthegriefschool Contact Us: Email: Thank you for joining us in this episode. Stay tuned for more discussions on how we can better navigate grief and healing together. /episode/index/show/healingstartswiththeheart/id/33546012

Grief Glitters 10/15/2024

When Grief Is Unbearable 10/08/2024

When Grief Is Unbearable Podcast Description: Hello everyone, today we’re talking about those moments when grief feels unbearable. It’s important to remember that you’re not alone during these times. Grief can feel overwhelming, but there are ways to manage and cope with these intense emotions. When grief feels unbearable, reaching out for support is crucial. Whether it’s talking to a friend, family member, or grief counselor, sharing your feelings can provide relief. Additionally, practicing self-care can help you navigate through these difficult times. Taking care of your physical, emotional, and mental health is essential. Sometimes, doing simple things like taking a walk, journaling, or practicing mindfulness can make a big difference. Remember, it's okay to ask for help and to take the time you need to heal. Here are five journal questions to help you navigate those moments when grief feels unbearable: What specific situations or triggers make your grief feel unbearable? How do you typically react or cope when the intensity of grief feels overwhelming? Who can you reach out to for support during these times? What self-care practices can you implement to help manage these intense emotions? How can you remind yourself of your strength and resilience when grief feels too heavy? What activities or routines have helped you feel grounded and supported in the past? Reflect on these questions and remember, it’s okay to seek help and lean on others when grief feels too much to bear. Taking small steps towards self-care and reaching out for support can make a significant difference in your healing journey. Follow Us: Website: https://www.healingstartswiththeheart.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/healingstartswiththeheart Instagram: Contact Us: Email: [email protected] Thank you for joining us in this episode. Stay tuned for more discussions and support on your grief journey. /episode/index/show/healingstartswiththeheart/id/32238987

The Difference Between Loss and Grief 10/01/2024

Understanding the Meaning of Grief 09/29/2024

What Has Grief Taught Us 09/24/2024

Your Grief Song: The Healing Power of Music 09/17/2024

Rebuilding Life Beyond Loss with Joi Renique 09/10/2024

Rebuilding Life Beyond Loss with Joi Renique Episode Title: Rebuilding Life Beyond Loss with Joi Renique Episode Description: In today’s episode, we dive deep into the concept of "grief courage" — the remarkable inner strength it takes to face the pain of loss. Grieving is not about being fearless but about embracing the full weight of your emotions and allowing yourself to heal through them. Join us as we explore what it means to be courageous in grief and how this strength can lead to profound healing. Key Points Discussed: Understanding Grief Courage: True courage lies not in hiding pain, but in facing it head-on. Grief courage allows us to feel deeply while embracing the journey toward healing. The Misconception of Strength: Society often tells us to put on a brave face, but real strength comes from allowing ourselves to fully experience grief. Healing starts when we stop avoiding our emotions and start tending to them. Healing Through Connection: Grief courage also involves reaching out, leaning on others, and knowing it’s okay to ask for help. When we share our grief, we lighten the emotional load, fostering a sense of community and support. Journal Questions: What does being courageous in grief mean to you? How do you currently cope with grief? Do you allow yourself to feel it fully? Who can you lean on during your grief journey? In what ways can you practice grief courage by embracing your emotions today? Conclusion: Grieving takes immense courage, and acknowledging your emotions is the first step toward healing. Reflect on these questions as you embrace your own grief courage. Remember, you don’t have to walk this path alone. Share your thoughts and journey with us — together, we can find strength in our shared experiences. Follow Us: Website: Facebook: Instagram: @healatthegriefschool Contact Us: Email: Thank you for joining us for this episode. Stay tuned for more discussions and support on your grief journey. This structure captures the tone of your brand: empathetic, supportive, and empowering, focusing on actionable steps and deep emotional recovery. /episode/index/show/healingstartswiththeheart/id/32988077

Grief Triggers: Understanding and Coping with Unexpected Moments 09/03/2024

Grief Triggers: Understanding and Coping with Unexpected Moments Episode Title: Grief Triggers: Understanding and Coping with Unexpected Moments Episode Description: In today's episode, we dive into the topic of grief triggers—those unexpected moments when a memory, a smell, a song, or even a place brings back the pain of loss. Grief triggers are a natural part of the grieving process and can be challenging to navigate. Join us as we explore how to understand and cope with these triggers, allowing ourselves to feel the emotions they bring up. Key Points Discussed: What Are Grief Triggers? Grief triggers are personal and can vary widely. They may include the scent of a loved one’s perfume or a significant song. These triggers remind us of the deep connections and love we continue to feel for those we’ve lost. Acknowledging Your Emotions: It’s important to acknowledge grief triggers and allow yourself to feel the emotions they bring up. Avoiding or suppressing these feelings can often intensify them. Coping Strategies: Create a plan for how to handle grief triggers when they arise. Strategies might include deep breathing exercises, reaching out to a supportive friend, or engaging in a comforting activity. Journal Questions: What are some of the most common triggers that bring back memories of your loved one? How do you typically feel when you encounter these triggers? What coping strategies have you found helpful in dealing with grief triggers? Can you identify any patterns or specific times when these triggers are more likely to occur? How can you create a plan to manage your emotions when a trigger catches you off guard? Conclusion: Take your time reflecting on these questions. Remember, your grief is valid, and so are your emotions. By understanding and acknowledging your grief triggers, you can better navigate the waves of emotion that come with them. Follow Us: Website: https://www.healingstartswiththeheart.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/healingstartswiththeheart Instagram: Contact Us: Email: [email protected] Thank you for joining us in this episode. Stay tuned for more discussions and support on your grief journey. /episode/index/show/healingstartswiththeheart/id/32238912

Grief is Love with Nowhere to Go 08/27/2024

Your Grief Matters 08/25/2024

Your Grief Matters Your Grief Matters Episode Title: Your Grief Matters Episode Description: In today’s episode, we delve into the importance of finding a safe space to share your grief. Grief Study Hall, a free, supportive community for women, provides just that. We’ll explore why it’s crucial to express your grief openly and how doing so can be the first step on your healing journey. Through Sharon Brubaker’s personal story of loss, discover why having your grief acknowledged is essential, and how Study Hall can be the place where your healing truly begins. Key Points Discussed: The Need for a Safe Space: Grievers often feel their grief isn’t acknowledged or valued, making it hard to express their true feelings. Finding a community where you can openly share your grief, like Grief Study Hall, is vital for starting the healing process. The Power of Sharing Your Story: Sharing your story helps you process the pain and begin to heal. When someone listens to your grief, it validates your experience and emotions. Grief Study Hall provides a space where you can speak freely, surrounded by others who understand and share similar experiences. Grief as a Personal Journey: There are no stages or checklists in grief; everyone’s journey is unique. Grief Study Hall honors this individuality by allowing you to express your grief in your own way. Talking about your grief is the first step in moving from shock to healing. It’s a crucial part of your journey that can’t be skipped. Journal Questions: Have you been able to talk about your grief so far? Who have you shared your grief with, and what has been their response? What does a safe space look like for you when it comes to talking about your grief? Have you ever felt that you haven’t had a space to share your grief? If so, how has this affected you? How do you feel after you’ve talked about your grief and had someone truly listen to you? What are some of your fears about opening up in a grief group? How can being part of a community like Grief Study Hall help you on your healing journey? What steps can you take to create or find a safe space for you to talk about your grief? How can you support others in their grief within a community setting? How important do you think it is to support others in their grief journey? Conclusion: Use these questions to reflect on your grief journey and consider how joining Grief Study Hall might help you begin to heal. Remember, you’re not alone. In Grief Study Hall, you’ll find a community ready to listen, support, and walk alongside you as you navigate your grief. This space is free and open to all women looking for a place to share their grief and begin their healing journey. Follow Us: Website: https://www.healingstartswiththeheart.com/ Facebook: Instagram: Contact Us: Email: [email protected] Thank you for joining us in this episode. Stay tuned for more discussions and support on your grief journey. /episode/index/show/healingstartswiththeheart/id/32723102

Can Grief Affect Your Body? 08/17/2024

Can Grief Affect Your Body? Episode Description: In this episode, we explore the profound impact grief can have on the body. Grief is not just an emotional experience but also a physical one. We discuss the different types of grief—intellectual and emotional—and how they affect us. Learn about the common physical symptoms of grief, the importance of self-care, and the role of grief support groups in the healing process. Episode Highlights: The two types of grief: intellectual and emotional. How grief can affect the body and cause physical symptoms. The importance of self-care during grief. How grief impacts sleep and appetite. The role of grief support groups in the healing process. Key Takeaways: Two Types of Grief: Intellectual grief is processed in the brain, while emotional grief is felt in the heart. Both types can affect the body. Physical Symptoms: Grief can cause fatigue, sleep disturbances, appetite changes, weakened immune system, and muscle tension. Importance of Self-Care: Taking care of yourself is crucial during grief. Ensure you're getting enough sleep, eating well, and seeking medical and emotional support. Grief Support Groups: These groups provide a space for sharing experiences and emotions, offering a sense of community and understanding. Journal Questions: How has grief affected your physical health? What are the common physical symptoms you have experienced during grief? How do you balance taking care of yourself while dealing with grief? What steps can you take to improve your self-care routine? Who can you reach out to for support during this time? How does intellectual grief differ from emotional grief in your experience? What has been your experience with grief support groups? Listener Challenge: Reflect on how grief has impacted your body and overall health. Write down any physical symptoms you've noticed and think about ways to improve your self-care routine. If you're experiencing severe symptoms, make an appointment with your doctor. Consider joining a grief support group to share your experiences and find support. /episode/index/show/healingstartswiththeheart/id/32238622

Protecting a Loved One's Reputation: The Balance of Truth and Respect 08/02/2024

Protecting a Loved One's Reputation: The Balance of Truth and Respect Episode Description: In this episode, we delve into the delicate balance of protecting a loved one's reputation while telling the truth about their life. Why do we feel the need to shield their flaws? How does this affect our own healing? Join me as we discuss the importance of honesty in grief, the power of telling the truth, and how to maintain respect for the deceased while acknowledging their imperfections. Episode Highlights: Why do you feel the need to protect their reputation? The importance of telling the truth about your loved one. How honesty leads to true healing. Balancing respect for the deceased with acknowledging their flaws. Sharing personal stories and experiences with honesty and compassion. Key Takeaways: Honesty is Healing: True healing comes from being honest about your loved one's life, including their flaws. Balanced Legacy: You can honor your loved one's memory while also acknowledging their imperfections. Respectful Sharing: It's important to share the truth in a respectful way, without broadcasting every detail to the world. Personal Reflection: Reflect on how you talk about your loved one and consider what aspects you might be avoiding. Unique Grieving Experiences: Each person's grief is unique and shaped by their relationship with the deceased and their personal circumstances. Journal Questions: Why do I feel the need to protect my loved one's reputation? What truths about my loved one am I hesitant to share with others? How do I balance honesty and respect when talking about my loved one? What are the positive memories I have of my loved one? What are the difficult ones? How does being honest about my loved one's flaws affect my healing process? What aspects of my loved one's life do I feel comfortable sharing in a small, trusted group? How can I honor my loved one's memory while also acknowledging their imperfections? What steps can I take to ensure I am truthful about my loved one in a way that supports my healing? Listener Challenge: Take some time to reflect on your loved one's life. Write down the truth about their strengths and weaknesses. Share this with a trusted friend, support group, or therapist, and notice how it feels to be honest about their legacy. /episode/index/show/healingstartswiththeheart/id/32238517

Prioritizing Healing: The Journey from Grief to Joy 07/29/2024

Prioritizing Healing: The Journey from Grief to Joy Episode Description: In this episode, we explore the often-overlooked importance ofmaking ourselves and our healing a priority. We delve into the reasons why many of uscarry unhealed wounds from our past and how this unresolved pain can impact ourpresent lives and relationships. Sharon Brubaker, owner of The Grief School, discussesthe stigmas surrounding grief work, the necessity of emotional well-being, and sharesinspiring stories of transformation through healing. Tune in to discover how embracinggrief work can lead toa happier, more fulfilled life. Key Points: Unhealed Wounds:Understanding the impact of carrying unhealed wounds fromchildhood and past experiences. Investment in Healing:The discrepancy between what people are willing toinvest in finding love versushealing from grief. Repressed Pain:The consequences of ignoring or suppressing emotional pain. Societal Stigmas:Addressing the societal discomfort and stigmas associated withgrief and healing work. Self-Care:The importance of emotional well-being as aform of self-love and self-care. Transformation:Real-life stories of individuals who have transformed their livesthrough grief work. Honoring Loved Ones:How proper grieving honors our loved ones and leads topersonal joy and happiness. Journal Questions: What are some unhealed wounds from your past that you might be carrying withyou today? How have you invested in your emotional well-being in the past year? Whatchanges could you make to prioritize your healing? Can you identify any ways in which repressed pain has resurfaced in your currentrelationships or behaviors? How do societal stigmas around grief and healing affect your willingness to seekhelp or talk about your pain? What does self-care mean to you, and how can you incorporate emotionalhealing into your self-care routine? Think of a time when you felt a“wink”from a loved one who has passed away.How did that experience make you feel? What steps can you take today to begin or continue your journey of grief workand healing?Reflect on a storyof transformation you've heard or experienced. How does itinspire you to make your healing a priority? Resources Mentioned:The Grief School: https://www.healingstartswiththeheart.com/ Griever’s Guide: Connect with Sharon: | Email: Closing Thought: "Grief work may be one of the hardest things you will go through, yet it will be one of the most rewarding. Make your healing a priority, and you’ll find yourway back to happiness, joy,and laughter." /episode/index/show/healingstartswiththeheart/id/32238212

Embracing the Balance of Positive and Negative Emotions 07/21/2024

Embracing the Balance of Positive and Negative Emotions Episode Summary: In this episode of The Grief School Podcast, Sharon Brubaker explores the transformative concept of balancing positive and negative emotions. She challenges listeners to embrace the idea that our human experience is meant to be a balance of both and explains how understanding this balance can increase our power and ability to effect change in the world. Sharon provides insightful reflections and practical steps to help listeners create emotional balance on purpose. Key Takeaways: Understanding the balance of emotion can increase your power in the world and your ability to change it tenfold. Embracing both positive and negative emotions as part of the human experience can lead to a more balanced and less negatively charged life. By not resisting negative emotions and instead creating, allowing, and understanding them, we can reduce their impact and foster a healthier emotional state. Concepts Discussed: Thoughts Create Feelings: We generate our emotions through the thoughts we entertain. Balance of Emotions: The human experience is a blend of positive and negative emotions. Emotional Control: We have the power to create, allow, and resist emotions. Journal Questions: Identify Negative Emotions: What are some negative emotions you have experienced recently? How did you react to them? Positive Outcomes from Negative Situations: Think about a positive outcome that emerged from a negative situation in your life. How did the balance between the positive and negative play out? Handling Negative Emotions: How do you typically handle negative emotions? Do you resist them, allow them, or try to change them? Regular Positive Emotions: What positive emotions do you experience regularly? How do they influence your daily life? Overwhelming Negative Emotions: Reflect on a time when you felt overwhelmed by negative emotions. What thoughts were you having, and how did they contribute to those feelings? Creating Emotional Balance: How can you create more balance between positive and negative emotions in your daily life? Personal Meaning of Balance: What does the concept of balancing positive and negative emotions mean to you personally? Increasing Power through Balance: How can understanding this balance increase your power and ability to create change in the world? Additional Resources: Connect with Sharon Brubaker: | | Call to Action: If you found this episode helpful, please share it with someone who might benefit from understanding the balance of emotions. Don't forget to download the eBook: The Griever’s Guide. Link: Contact Information: Email: Phone: (661) 212-0720 Thank you for listening to Healing Starts with The Heart. Remember to embrace the balance and take care! Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice or therapy. /episode/index/show/healingstartswiththeheart/id/32234692

The Emotional Effects of a Serious Illness or Injury 07/07/2024

The Emotional Effects of a Serious Illness or Injury Host: Sharon Brubaker, Grief Specialist Description: Welcome to Healing Starts with the Heart, where grief meets resilience. In this deeply personal episode, host Sharon Brubaker shares her journey through a serious health diagnosis and its emotional impact. Sharon dives into the unexpected grief that accompanies serious illnesses or injuries, offering insights, support, and a heartfelt personal story to guide listeners through their own experiences. Episode Highlights: Introduction Sharon introduces the topic and its personal significance. The transformative journey of coping with a serious illness or injury. Personal Story Sharon recounts her experience from April 7th, 2024. The initial symptoms, misdiagnoses, and eventual discovery of a 95% blockage in the widowmaker of her heart. The emotional rollercoaster: fear, numbness, frustration, and realization. The Unique Experience of Women The differences in heart attack symptoms between men and women. Sharon's persistence in seeking the correct diagnosis despite normal test results. The importance of advocating for oneself in the medical field. Emotional Impact The range of emotions faced: fear, worry, sadness, and numbness. Sharon's fear of leaving her husband behind. The shift from fear of death to acceptance and planning. Coping Mechanisms The role of journaling in processing emotions and thoughts. Sharon’s strategy of writing down important information for her family to reduce anxiety. The calming effect of preparedness. Grief and Loss The grief associated with losing health and the old way of life. Feeling powerless, isolated, and facing one’s own mortality. The importance of pausing and reflecting on emotions and thoughts. Journal Questions for Reflection Primary emotions experienced due to illness or grief. Intensity and physical location of these emotions in the body. Sharon encourages listeners to use these questions to gain deeper insights into their emotional state. A Message to Women Encouragement to seek medical help if something feels off. Advocating for better understanding and treatment of women's heart health. Griever’s Guide and Free Videos Sharon shares the story of Austin's loss and her mission to understand grief. Free resources: The Griever’s Guide ebook and videos on various grief-related topics. Closing Thoughts Sharon’s gratitude for having more time and her dedication to supporting others through grief. A reminder that Sharon sees, understands, and supports her listeners in their healing journey. Resources: Download Call to Action: If you’ve been touched by today’s episode, please share it with someone who might benefit from hearing Sharon’s story. Subscribe to Healing Starts with the Heart for more episodes on grief, healing, and resilience. Contact Information: Website: Email: Follow Sharon on and Thank you for joining us on this journey. Remember, you are not alone in your grief, and together we can find healing. /episode/index/show/healingstartswiththeheart/id/32064922

The Fear of Moving On Without You 02/24/2024

You Now Live in the Alternate Universe 02/17/2024

You Now Live in the Alternate Universe Hello, dear listeners, and welcome to another episode of "Healing Starts with the Heart." I'm Sharon, your guide on this journey of understanding and healing from grief. Today's topic is a unique one: feeling like you're living in an 'Alternative Universe' after a loss. You're still here on Earth, going about your daily life. You say hi to your neighbors, visit the grocery store, talk to people. But something feels different, doesn't it? It's like you're there, but not really seen. There's this vast divide between you and the rest of the world. This feeling is more common in grief than you might think. It's like you're in a world parallel to the one everyone else is living in. You're physically present, but emotionally and mentally, there's a distance. The world keeps moving, but you might feel stuck or invisible. The divide you're feeling – it's clear and profound, especially now. And it's during times like these that connecting with others who are grieving becomes so important. Why, you ask? Because they can truly see you. They recognize the devastation at the core of your life. This recognition, this feeling of being seen, it changes something in grief. Being seen by someone who understands doesn't fix everything. But it helps. In the early stages of grief, it might be the only thing that feels like it's helping. Sharing your experience with someone who gets it can bridge that gap you're feeling, even if it's just for a moment. So, if you're feeling like you're living in this 'Alternative Universe,' remember, you're not alone. Seek out those who are also on this journey of grief. Their understanding and recognition can be a lifeline. Thank you for tuning in to "Healing Starts with the Heart." Keep taking small steps towards healing, and remember, it's okay to lean on others who understand. Until next time, take care of yourselves and each other. https://beacons.ai/thegriefschool /episode/index/show/healingstartswiththeheart/id/29671293

Loss of Trust in the World and People 02/10/2024

Grievers Have Choices 02/03/2024

Saying "Yes" to Healing and Living Again 01/27/2024

Let's Talk About Grief 01/20/2024

Healing Starts with the Heart

TOPICS