LINKS & RESOURCES: 

Learn more about Dr. Mary-Frances O’Connor HERE 

Get info about The Grieving Body HERE  

Get info about The Grieving Brain HERE 

Learn more about the Dougy Project (to help grieving children) HERE 

In this episode of AGE BETTER, host Barbara Hannah Grufferman welcomes back Dr. Mary-Frances O'Connor, neuroscientist, psychologist, and author of the best-selling book The Grieving Brain. This time, Dr. O’Connor joins the show to discuss her latest work, The Grieving Body: How the Stress of Loss Can Be an Opportunity for Healing. Together, they explore the profound connection between grief and physical health, offering listeners a deeper understanding of how loss impacts not just the mind but the entire body. 

CHEAT SHEET: 

Grief is more than an emotional experience—it’s a whole-body stress response that affects systems like the heart, immune system, and even the gut microbiome. Dr. O’Connor shares fascinating insights from her research, including how grief can lead to conditions like broken heart syndrome, disrupt sleep patterns, and even influence long-term health through generational grief. She also provides practical strategies for managing grief’s physical toll, from improving sleep quality to fostering community support and self-care routines. 

This conversation is essential for anyone who has experienced loss or wants to better support loved ones who are grieving. By understanding the science behind grief’s physical manifestations, listeners can take actionable steps toward healing and resilience. 

WHY THIS EPISODE MATTERS TO YOU: 

Grief is a universal experience, but its physical effects are often overlooked. This episode sheds light on how loss impacts our bodies and offers practical advice for managing these effects. Whether you’re currently grieving or supporting someone who is, this conversation provides valuable tools for navigating one of life’s most challenging experiences with compassion and care. 

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