I recently had the opportunity to sit down with certified grief coach Angela Clement,where we delved into the transformative process of healing and navigating life after loss. Her insights and compassionate approach offer valuable guidance for anyone walking through the journey of grief.

Grief is a deeply personal and evolving experience, and for many, holidays, birthdays, and anniversaries bring unique challenges. It’s a time when traditions may feel hollow without the presence of a loved one, and yet, new ways of celebrating can emerge, carrying their essence forward in meaningful ways.

One of the most profound insights from my recent interview with Angela was the realization that trying to celebrate these occasions exactly as before may not be the best approach. For some, reinventing traditions and finding different ways to commemorate these special days can bring more comfort than attempting to recreate the past. The first year after loss often feels like survival mode—going through the motions, staying present, and focusing on small moments like the scent of a holiday meal or the laughter of loved ones nearby. Over time, the approach shifts, allowing space for preparation and adaptation.

Having a plan, or even multiple plans, for handling emotionally significant dates can provide a sense of control. As years pass, new traditions take shape, and while they may look different, they can still bring joy. Acknowledging that the essence of a lost loved one remains, through stories and shared memories, keeps them present in every gathering. The important thing is not to force the past but to embrace a future where they remain part of the experience in a new way.

Supporting Those Who Grieve Without Trying to “Fix” Them

One of the hardest aspects of grief is watching a loved one struggle and feeling powerless to help. The truth is, grief cannot be “fixed,” but it can be acknowledged. Simple acts of recognition—sending a text on an anniversary, mentioning their loved one’s name, or simply listening—can be powerful gestures. Grievers don’t need reminders of their loss; they carry it always. What they do need is to know they are seen, heard, and supported.

Many people avoid bringing up the name of the deceased out of fear of making someone cry, but those tears are not something to be avoided. They are expressions of love, and they can be cathartic rather than painful. Sharing stories, memories, and laughter about the person who has passed keeps their spirit alive in a way that silence never could.

Practical Tools for Coping with Grief

In Angela’s book Awakening Through Grief, she provides practical exercises for navigating loss. One particularly helpful technique is Donna Eden’s daily energy routine, which she used during her loved one’s illness and in the aftermath of loss. The simple, structured practice helps shift overwhelming emotions like fear and anxiety, offering a few minutes of grounding and emotional clarity.

The journey through grief is not about forgetting or moving on—it’s about learning to carry love forward in a new way. Over time, the pain softens, and while the love remains, so does the ability to embrace life again, in ways that honor both the past and the future.

Grief is a journey, not a destination, and healing requires active participation. Many people believe that time alone will mend the wounds of loss, but the truth is that we must engage in our healing process to move forward. One practical and accessible method to release grief is through energy healing, specifically techniques like EFT tapping, which helps to clear trapped emotions. Grief is often said to reside in the lungs, which explains why those who are grieving sometimes say, “I can’t breathe.” Exercises like tapping can help release that energy, making space for healing. Resources like Brad Yates’ extensive library of YouTube videos offer guidance for those looking to begin this practice.

Writing is another powerful tool for processing grief. For many, journaling or blogging about their experiences helps them put their emotions into perspective. Initially, sharing personal reflections can be intimidating, but doing so allows others to connect with your journey, providing comfort and validation. In some cases, these writings evolve into books, offering not only personal healing but also guidance for others navigating similar paths.

One of the biggest misconceptions about grief is that it fades with time. In reality, healing requires intentional effort, self-compassion, and self-care—things we’re often conditioned to view as selfish. Learning to love and nurture ourselves is an essential step in moving forward.

Finding joy after loss doesn’t mean forgetting our loved ones; rather, it means honoring them in meaningful ways. This could involve embracing aspects of their personality or interests and incorporating them into our lives. When we do this, we keep their spirit alive while rediscovering purpose and fulfillment.

The grief journey is also a spiritual awakening, opening us up to bigger questions about life, death, and our purpose. Many find comfort in deepening their connection with nature, community, and spiritual exploration. Awakening through grief is an ongoing process, one that fosters compassion, connection, and personal growth.

Above all, there is hope. Grief may feel overwhelming, but it is possible to heal, transform, and find joy again. Support systems, whether through grief coaches, support groups, or shared experiences, are invaluable. You are not alone in this journey, and healing is within reach if you seek it.

Scott is a Spirit Medium, TV Personality, and speaker, and is author of the book “In the Presence of Light-A Funeral Director’s Journey from Mourning to Mediumship.” Also known as The Boston Medium, Scott is best known for his appearances on the Dark Echoes Paranormal TV Show on Amazon Prime Video and Paraflixx. To learn more about Scott, click: mediumscottallan.com

.To listen to my full interview with Angela Clement, click here: The Enlightened Life Podcast – Angela Clement