I’m now a best-selling author!
Just Launched:
Unleashing Your Soul-Level Magic
Unleashing Your Soul-Level Magic features 12 authors sharing stories of overcoming challenges in their lives. These stories of transformation will inspire you as you discover amazing things about these women … and yourself.
In my chapter, From Grief to Purpose, I share my journey from a 24-year-old widow to becoming a Certified Life & Business Coach who focuses on loss and grief.
Coming up!
The first Thursday of every month, 10:30 am (PT)
Free Virtual Coffee Break
If you’re a business professional looking for more human connection and some personal & professional support, I invite you to join our next virtual coffee break.
To maintain the personal connection, we keep the group size small. Frst come, first served — reserve your FREE spot now:
About Maryann Udel
I was 24 when my husband was killed in an automobile accident. Overnight, I went from being a young wife to a young widow. From deeply in love to lost in grief. Family and friends were all very supportive but, ultimately, I had to figure out how to move myself forward and reclaim my life.
Through years of discovery and exploration, I found it is possible to live, love, laugh and find joy again after loss. And I’ve made it my mission to help others who are experiencing massive transition know that they’re not alone, and to help them reconnect with their life.
If you or a loved one needs help, or you’d like to know more about the programs we offer at Sheltering Tree, please email me, or schedule a time to chat: http://yourshelteringtree.com/call-maryann.
Recent Posts
How to help a grieving friend
Most people in the US are uncomfortable talking about or dealing with grief. It is not a topic for general discussion. In fact, grief is often avoided at all costs.
But grief needs to be acknowledged and expressed. It is the normal and natural emotional response to loss. Many of the things we have learned about loss are from books. To help anyone who is grieving, you need to deal with their broken heart, which requires emotional support.
There are many different situations that produce grief. Besides the most obvious one, the death of a loved one, you can experience grief over a divorce, a job loss, the end of a relationship or a serious illness.
Whatever the situation is, remember that there is nothing you can do to change it. It’s impossible to undo or alter the past. There is nothing you can do to ‘fix’ it.
Whoever is grieving has to learn to live with their new normal. That healing work happens internally.
Each person will experience grief differently. While there are similar feelings to expect, there is no specific timeline or checklist to follow.
Now, you might be thinking – “Well, what can I do? How can I help my friend (or family member) deal with their grief?”
For starters, you can offer your support just by being present. Show up. There is no need to feel obligated to speak. Even if you say nothing, your presence will be appreciated.
If you do speak, here are few suggestions of things you might say:
“I feel your pain.”
“I am sorry for your loss.”
“I’m here for you.”
“How about a hug?”
“Would you like to talk about your loved one?”
“How are you doing today?
There are simple actions you can take if you happen to live near them.
You can pick up essentials at the grocery store or bring meals in freezable containers. Offer to watch the children (if they have them).
Or you can simply ask if they want company. Sit and listen or invite them to go for a walk.
And never underestimate the value of a simple phone call. No matter how far away you live you can always call to let them know you are thinking about them.
Grief is a part of life everyone experiences. It’s an individual process.
Be patient.
Be kind.
Open your heart and listen.
If you or someone you know is dealing with loss and needs help, please reach out to find a time to talk. You are not alone. I am here.
How to calm your storm
You do your best to take good care of yourself. When your loss occurred, you were flung into a personal storm. You had to figure out how to take care of yourself when everything around you was in a state of chaos. How did you do that? Or maybe a better question - did...
Get your feelings out of your head
There are days when you may feel like you are all alone. You're afraid to share your true emotions. You don't want to burden anyone. You think that no one cares or maybe no one understands. However, I know from speaking with individuals all across the country that no...
Uncomfortable can be OK
You, like most people, want to feel comfortable. After all, comfort is good. However, when major changes occur, life gets turned upside down. Your normal routines - the internal comfort that you once had is gone. No matter what change has happened for you (a job loss,...