Grief as Spiritual Practice

The Use of Mindfulness in Working with Grief

The word “spirit” originally meant “breath” or life force. Using this definition, we might think of “spiritual practice” as a practice that brings, supports, or renews life. “Grief as Spiritual Practice” is a way in which grief can make alive that part of you that you feel is missing.

To learn about Mindfulness and the Task of Grief,

please click the links below.

If you feel you need additional information or have questions about the application of

Mindfulness practice to Grief as a Spiritual Practice, please email Dr. Thornton with your question.

Every effort will be made to respond within 24 hrs.

mbi@patrickthornton.net

If you feel you need immediate help, please call your local help line or 911 for assistance.

One form of spiritual practice is what is known as “Mindfulness-based practice.” It a specific way of paying attention moment-by-moment to the truth of your experience. It is a simple, clinically proven practice by which you can bring healing to body, soul and spirit without gimmicks, expensive paraphernalia, or religious persuasion. Through this method you can use each of the Tasks of Grief as a means for renewal.

What follows is a step-by-step guide on how you can use the foundations of Mindfulness-base practice to make each of the tasks of grief a transforming experience. You will find that like anything

“Praise The Night”

Beginning Mindfulness Meditation Instruction

Notice how the breath finds its own rhythm. It may be deep or shallow, long or short, rapid or slow—maybe even imperceptibly slow, moist or dry, shaky or smooth. Pay attention to how the breath does exactly what it needs to do without you x to give it any thought or guidance. Just observe.

Perhaps the simplest instruction for the practice of of mindfulness is to find a quite place that is relatively free from distraction where you can let your mind settle and your body be at ease. Then, resting your attention on the place above your belly we call the diaphragm, pay attention to the experience of your breath as it comes and goes as though it were breathing its self.