Description

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What if grief isn't just about death?

In this thoughtful and compassionate episode of In the Rising Podcast, Bettina Brown, PT, explores the many faces of grief and how major life changes—including illness, disability, divorce, loss of independence, and unexpected diagnoses—can leave us mourning the life we thought we would have.

Released in the days following Memorial Day, this episode reflects on the meaning of memory, loss, and the universal human experience of grieving. Drawing from her years as a physical therapist working with individuals facing life-changing diagnoses and functional loss, Bettina discusses why grief is not something to "get over," but rather something we learn to carry with compassion, meaning, and hope.

She explores the fluid nature of grief, the emotions that often accompany it, and why there is no "right" timeline for healing. From anger and bargaining to acceptance and hope, Bettina reminds listeners that grief is deeply personal—and that giving ourselves permission to feel may be one of the most healing gifts we can offer ourselves.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• Why grief extends far beyond the loss of a loved one
• How health crises, disability, divorce, and changes in identity can trigger grief
• Why no two people experience grief in the same way
• Common emotional responses to loss, including anger, isolation, sadness, and frustration
• Why the stages of grief are not linear
• The difference between sadness and depression
• How self-compassion and emotional acceptance support healing
• Why meaning and purpose often emerge through suffering
• How perspective changes throughout different seasons of life
• Why joy and sadness are both essential parts of the human experience

Whether you're facing a cancer diagnosis, grieving a change in your health, or simply navigating one of life's unexpected detours, this episode offers permission to slow down, honor your emotions, and trust your own journey.

Because healing isn't about avoiding grief.

It's about learning to live fully alongside it.

Power Quote

"To spare oneself from grief at all costs can be achieved only at the price of total detachment, which excludes the ability to experience happiness."

Joy and sadness are not opposites. They are companions in the human experience.

Thank you for listening to In the Rising. If this episode touched your heart, please share it with someone who may need encouragement and compassion during a difficult season.

Until next time, let's keep building one another up.

Thank you for your time and interest in this podcast! I invite you to leave a heartfelt review on whichever podcast platform you listen to.  It does so much to bring exposure to the podcast and helps lift others up!
Email:  Bettina@intherising.com