When your pet transitions to Rainbow Bridge many emotions will be flowing through your body and it is important that you realize that grieving is a healthy process. Repressing your emotions can result into shock and more crying spells later when something overwhelming happens.  It will be much easier for yourself and others if you allow yourself to process your grief.  Due to Seiki’s passing I have learned some great ways to allow the process of grief to flow through myself more easily.  I wanted to share them with you.

1.) Drink plenty of water.  Grieving releases many chemicals in your body. Drinking allows these chemicals to pass through your body more easily.

2.) Flower essences can support the grieving process.  I personally used Rescued Remedy.

3.) Lavender essential oil will help your body relax.  Mix with a carrier oil and place on the bottom of your feet.  This has helped me sleep more easily at night.  You can also do detox bath with lavender oil and epsom salt as well.

4.) Allow yourself to have support.  Call people who will be supportive of your emotions.  Talking is healthy and will allow yourself to be authentic.

5.) Read a book to help you release.  I suggest the book my friend bought for me, The Heaven of Animals by Nancy Tillman.

6.) Hold a ceremony.  When Seiki passed we had many of our friends join us.  We will also be holding a meditation ceremony with his ashes.

7.) Allow yourself to feel angry and sad.  Your emotions are real and valid.  It is natural for you to feel after loosing your loved one.

8.) If you like Gaiam TV here is a great video to watch: “Life After Bereavement” with Dianne Arcangel.

9.) Here is a great article on “Coping with Pet Loss.”

For myself, Seiki was my son, and I am also experiencing the loss of dog training. Salt Lake City was a place where Seiki and I created many fun dog obedience experiences. The grief is strong and will be a process for myself to release.

Your Turn!  We want to hear from you in a comment below!

How are you coping with your grief or how are you supporting others to cope with theirs?

Namaste!
Johanna Teresi, Professional Owner and Trainer of Four Legged Scholars LLC, Dog Training, Salt Lake City