Grief is the New Normal: Embracing Nonlinear Grief with Polyvagal Theory In this enlightening episode of 'Grief is the New Normal,' Dr. Heather Taylor redefines the grieving process by integrating Deb Dana's polyvagal theory and the dual processing model. She challenges the traditional stage-based models of grief, presenting instead an understanding of how the nervous system—through ventral vagal, sympathetic, and dorsal vagal states—manifests grief. Emphasizing the nonlinearity of grief, Dr. Taylor discusses the oscillation between deep emotional grief states and restorative activities, secondary losses, and grief bursts. She offers practical advice on building continuing bonds with deceased loved ones and navigating grief with compassion. The episode underscores that grief is a highly personal journey, highlighting the importance of community, acceptance, and adaptation.

00:00 Introduction to Grief is the New Normal

00:26 Polyvagal Theory and Grief

00:54 Updating Episode Three

01:15 Understanding Grief in Society

02:14 The Nonlinear Nature of Grief

03:24 Polyvagal Theory: The Ladder of Grief States

04:11 Sympathetic State: High Alert

05:06 Dorsal Vagal State: Withdrawal

06:03 Navigating the Nervous System Ladder

07:02 Hospice Work and Grief Counseling

09:46 Navigating the Depths of Grief

09:59 The Dual Processing Model of Grief

10:39 Understanding Grief States

11:49 Secondary Losses and Grief Bursts

12:53 The Nonlinear Nature of Grief

14:51 Meaning Making and Continuing Bonds

15:49 Wrapping Up: Embracing the Grief Journey

18:20 Final Thoughts and Resources

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I'm Dr. Heather Taylor, a licensed, PsyPact psychologist based out of Washington state. I've been practicing grief therapy since 2012 and am passionate about changing the narrative of grief in our current cultural climate. Grief is a universal lived experience and as such needs to be something we talk about without the taboo attached. I hope you'll join me as we work to adjust to the new normal we are living in and support one another in that process.

https://www.griefisthenewnormal.com

hello@griefisthenewnormal.com

Dr. Taylor is also a co-founder of 'The Mourning Movement,' with Jen Reisinger, LMHC. The Mourning Movement aims to create spaces for grief education and community support to reduce isolation and stigma around grief. Be sure to sign up for more modern grief insights and resources at https://themourningmovement.myflodesk.com/resourcesandnewsletter

https://www.themourningmovement.com

hello@themourningmovement.com

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Opening Music by The Dadicorns

Copyright 2024 Grief is the New Normal: A podcast with Dr. Heather Taylor

All Rights Reserved.

This podcast is meant for educational and entertainment purposes only. The information discussed in this podcast is not a replacement or substitute for therapy.