MotherGrief

Today, Sarah explores the profound connection between grief and love. She takes us on a journey through global grief rituals and ceremonies, uncovering the universal truths they reflect. Drawing from her personal experiences and inspirations, Sarah highlights the transformative power of rituals in honoring grief, creating space for emotions, and cultivating community healing. She also weaves in her own reflections on tending to grief through nature and how it mirrors life’s cycles of growth, loss, and renewal.

Today on MotherGrief:

• The inseparable connection between grief and love
• Tending to grief through rituals: a personal reflection on healing with nature
• Insights into grief traditions from around the world
• The importance of ritual as a container for grief
• How to create personal grief rituals by drawing inspiration from nature and lineage
• Reflecting on motherhood’s role in rituals and community grief

Resources:

• The Wild Edge of Sorrow by Francis Weller
• My Father’s Wake by Kevin Toolis
• The Songlines by Bruce Chatwin
• The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying by Sogyal Rinpoche
• Motherhood and Loss in Victorian England by Claudia Nelson
• Balinese Ceremonial Practices by Urs Ramseyer

Connect with Sarah:

• Instagram: @sarahsaintjohn
• Mama Nervous System Reset: https://theuncensoredempath.com/mama-nervous-system-reset

In this episode, Sarah delves into the intricate physiological changes that accompany motherhood. Building on last week’s discussion on matrescence, Sarah offers a deeper exploration of the remarkable transformations—physical, emotional, and spiritual—that mothers undergo during preconception, pregnancy, and postpartum. Drawing on science, personal experience, and poetic insights, this episode celebrates the profound journey of becoming a mother, while acknowledging the grief, growth, and evolution it entails.

Today on MotherGrief:

• Physiological changes during preconception, pregnancy, and postpartum
• Hormonal, cardiovascular, and neurological adaptations in motherhood
• The lasting biological bond through fetal microchimerism
• Motherhood as a journey of grief, growth, and transformation
• The impact of modern isolation and rebuilding the “village”
• A poetic reflection on the beauty of becoming a mother

Resources:

• Science (2012): A study by Fisher et al. demonstrated the persistence of fetal DNA in a mother's body years after childbirth.
• American Journal of Reproductive Immunology (2009): This research provides evidence of fetal cells remaining in maternal organs and tissues, suggesting that fetal microchimerism plays a role in immune system modulation.
• Nature (2004): Studies that reveal the movement of fetal cells across the placenta and their long-term presence in maternal organs.
• The Journal of Neuroscience, Hoekzema et al. (2016). Brain structure changes during pregnancy.
• Psychoneuroendocrinology, on the role of cortisol during pregnancy.
• The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, on maternal nutrition and its impact on pregnancy.
• The Journal of Reproductive Medicine, on postpartum recovery and immune system changes.
• The Lancet, on postpartum hormonal changes.

Connect with Sarah:

• Instagram: @sarahsaintjohn
• Mama Nervous System Reset: https://theuncensoredempath.com/mama-nervous-system-reset

Today's solo episode takes us on a heartfelt exploration of matrescence—the transformative rite of passage from maiden to mother. Drawing from her personal experiences and the insights of experts, Sarah delves into the often-unspoken grief that accompanies this journey. She reframes grief as a marker of growth, encouraging mothers to honor their evolution in motherhood.

Today on MotherGrief:

• Sarah’s journey through matrescence and its impact on her identity
• What matrescence is and its parallels to adolescence
• The grief of matrescence as part of the transition from maiden to mother
• Grief as a sign of growth and the importance of honoring it
• Physical and neurological changes that accompany motherhood
• Evolving identity through motherhood and embracing transformation
• A simple breathwork practice for grounding and reflection

Resources:

• The Age of the Mother by Sarah DeGregorio
• What No One Tells You: A Guide to Your Emotions During Pregnancy and Early Motherhood by Dr. Alexandra Sacks
• The Female Brain by Dr. Louann Brizendine

Journal Prompts for Reflection:

• What parts of my maiden self am I grieving?
• How has my sense of identity changed since becoming a mother?
• How can I honor my grief as a way of nurturing my growth?
• What is one thing I can do today to support my evolving self during this rite of passage?

Connect with Sarah:

• Instagram: @sarahsaintjohn
• Mama Nervous System Reset: https://theuncensoredempath.com/mama-nervous-system-reset

Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions of stillbirth and pregnancy loss, which may be difficult for some listeners. Listener discretion is advised, particularly for those who may find these subjects triggering or difficult to engage with.

In this deeply moving episode, Sarah sits down with Andrea Meyers, founder of The Grief Closet. Andrea shares the story of her daughter, Terra, who was stillborn at 38 weeks, and how this profound loss reshaped her life and purpose. This episode creates a space for the often-hidden grief surrounding stillbirth, providing education, support, and a voice to those who have experienced it. Andrea’s candid storytelling and vulnerability open the door for meaningful conversations about honoring life, embracing grief, and fostering systemic changes in maternal healthcare.

Today on MotherGrief:

• Terra’s story and Andrea’s journey through loss and healing
• Understanding stillbirth prevention and the importance of maternal intuition
• The role of advocacy and awareness in transforming maternal care practices
• How grief reshapes relationships, perspectives, and personal growth
• The significance of honoring a stillborn child and the rituals that help
• Practical advice for those supporting loved ones through stillbirth
• Andrea’s creation of The Grief Closet and her mission to honor grief through art and apparel

Connect with Andrea Meyers:

• Instagram: @‌grievinglikeamother | @thegriefcloset
• Website: thegriefcloset.com

Connect with Sarah:

• Instagram: @sarahsaintjohn
• Mama Nervous System Reset: https://theuncensoredempath.com/mama-nervous-system-reset

Trigger Warning: This episode discusses sensitive topics, including early pregnancy loss, miscarriage, and the emotional experiences of grief and healing. Listener discretion is advised, particularly for those who may find these subjects triggering or difficult to engage with.

In this episode, Sarah speaks with Andrea Turnbow, founder of The Grief Nook, about her experience with early pregnancy loss. Andrea shares the emotional journey of navigating grief, from the initial disbelief and guilt to finding healing through creativity and community. They discuss the societal silence around miscarriage, the complexities of pregnancy after loss, and the importance of honoring even the shortest lives. This conversation offers support, insight, and hope to anyone touched by early loss or seeking to understand it better.

Today on MotherGrief:

• Andrea’s journey through early pregnancy loss and the emotions of guilt, anger, and disbelief
• Breaking societal silence and stigmas around miscarriage and early loss
• The healing power of naming and honoring lost pregnancies
• Navigating the complexities of pregnancy after loss
• Using creative outlets and rituals, like art and nature, to process grief
• Parenting after loss and fostering open, age-appropriate conversations about grief

Connect with Andrea Turnbow:

• Instagram: @thegriefnook
• Website: thegriefnook.com
• LinkedIn: andreaturnbow

Connect with Sarah:

• Instagram: @sarahsaintjohn
• Mama Nervous System Reset: https://theuncensoredempath.com/mama-nervous-system-reset

Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions about loss, child loss, and the emotional challenges of navigating grief during the holidays. If these topics are sensitive or triggering for you, please listen with care. If needed, consider pausing or seeking support from trusted individuals or resources.

Summary: 

In this solo episode, Sarah explores the complexities of grief during the holiday season—a time often filled with joy, togetherness, and traditions, but also profound sadness, loss, and unmet expectations for those grieving. Sarah offers heartfelt insights for grieving mothers and those supporting them, providing guidance on navigating the complexities of the holiday season with vulnerability, understanding, and self-compassion.

Today on MotherGrief:

• Embracing the duality of joy and grief during the holiday season without guilt or shame
• How societal pressures for perfection amplify grief and unmet expectations
• Recognizing physical grief symptoms, such as “grief hangovers” and somatic sensations
• Honoring loved ones through meaningful rituals
• Simplifying holiday plans, setting boundaries, and practicing self-care to manage grief burnout
• Leaning on support systems to navigate the complexities of grief with connection and compassion

Connect with Sarah:

• Instagram: @sarahsaintjohn
• Mama Nervous System Reset: https://theuncensoredempath.com/mama-nervous-system-reset

In another profoundly insightful episode, Sarah sits down with Jessica Correnti, a Certified Child Life Specialist, author, and founder of Kids Grief Support. Drawing from over 16 years of experience supporting grieving children and families, Jessica shares her deeply personal journey as a bereaved mother who has experienced six pregnancy losses. Together, Sarah and Jessica explore the complexities of children’s grief, offering valuable guidance, practical tools, and compassionate perspectives.

Today on MotherGrief:

• The complexities of children’s grief and how it differs from adult grieving patterns
• The impact of language, like "I can’t even imagine," in validating or isolating grieving individuals
• Exploring grief in non-death losses and their effect on children
• Practical ways to talk to young children about death in age-appropriate terms
• How children process grief through play and the concept of “re-grieving” at developmental milestones
• The importance of grief literacy in schools and initiatives to support grieving students

Connect with Jessica Correnti:

• Instagram: @kidsgriefsupport
• Website: kidsgriefsupport.com
• Books by Jessica:
• The ABCs of Grief
• Forever Connected
• The ABCs of Grief: Emotions & Feelings (Preorder here)

Sarah's Top 25 Grief Books for Kids: click here

Connect with Sarah: @sarahsaintjohn

Mama Nervous System Reset: click here

In this thought-provoking episode, Sarah sits down with somatic healing practitioner and holistic life coach Rebecca Dollard to explore the intricate and often messy intersection of motherhood and entrepreneurship. Together, they unravel the societal pressure to "have it all figured out," the challenges of dual identities as mothers and creators, and the powerful role of somatic healing in reclaiming joy and authenticity. Rebecca shares her personal journey of stepping into entrepreneurship as a mother, the grief of letting go of old identities, and the transformative lessons learned along the way. This deep, honest conversation is a must-listen for anyone navigating motherhood, entrepreneurship, or both, while seeking to honor their humanity and wholeness.

Today on MotherGrief:

• The myth of "having it all" and why balance might not be the right word
• Grieving the loss of old identities while embracing new ones
• How perfectionism and mom guilt hold women back, and ways to break free
• The power of somatic healing to reconnect with your body and intuition
• Building support systems and redefining what success looks like in different seasons of life
• Shifting from performance-driven living to authentic, embodied presence

Connect with Rebecca Dollard:

• Instagram: @themotherhoodmentor
• Podcast: The Motherhood Mentor

Connect with Sarah:

Mama Nervous System Reset: https://theuncensoredempath.com/mama-nervous-system-reset

Instagram: @sarahsaintjohn

Today on MotherGrief, Sarah engages in a heartfelt discussion with licensed therapist and grief integration coach, Rio Richards. Specializing in trauma recovery with a focus on the nervous system and somatic EMDR, Rio brings her expertise and personal experience to the forefront as she shares her journey of anticipatory grief—navigating the emotional and physical toll it takes—and the complexities of being the eldest daughter during a loved one’s terminal illness.

Today on MotherGrief:

• Anticipatory grief’s impact on caregivers with terminally ill loved ones
• The pressure on eldest daughters to take caregiving and decision roles
• The difference between guilt and regret in grief
• Acknowledging secondary losses affecting identity and family dynamics
• Body-based grief techniques: recognizing sensations and creating safe spaces

Connect with Rio Richards:

• Instagram: @andthatsgrief
• Email: [email protected]
• Weekly Newsletter: https://substack.com/@touchingthefire
• Upcoming Event: Registration is open for Rio’s “Grief, Anxiety, and the Holidays” group starting the week of November 18th

In this deeply insightful episode, Sarah combines her extensive knowledge of empathic experiences with the profound and often complex journey of grief. Drawing from years of experience as an empath coach and host of The Uncensored Empath, Sarah shares how empaths navigate grief uniquely due to their heightened sensitivity and emotional awareness. This episode unpacks how the empath’s journey through grief can vary depending on their path to becoming an empath—whether born this way, influenced by cosmic origins, shaped by childhood experiences, or developed through numbing and disconnection.

Today on MotherGrief:

• How empaths experience grief more intensely due to heightened sensitivity
• Why mirror neurons amplify the absorption of others' emotions during grief
• The significance of setting boundaries to distinguish personal and external grief
• Exploring grounding practices to support emotional release and regulation
• The role of community connection in reducing emotional isolation during grief

Resources:

• Are you an empath? Take the Empath Quiz
• Discover your empath archetype: Empath Archetype Quiz
• Connect with Sarah for more info on her one-on-one somatic grief coaching: @sarahsaintjohn