Stop bypassing your pain: how to soften into it

Inspired by the last episode of this podcast with Dr Mekel Harris, and her brilliant work in the space of softening into grief. Today we’re exploring the concept of 'softening' as a journey towards stillness and surrender. Looking at the societal pressures of toxic productivity and the importance of being present with our emotions, especially in times of grief. Through personal reflections and practical prompts, you’ll be able to take steps to embrace your vulnerability, practice stillness, and cultivate self awareness as essential steps in your own journeys of softening and finding presence in grief and the painful. Emphasises that softness is not a weakness but a profound strength that allows for deeper connection with oneself and others.Journal prompts: Where am I soft and still? And where do I need to slow down and find stillness? Connect into your body. How does my body feel when I’m soft?Close your eyes and say, I’m listening. Where do I resist, where do I numb, where do I avoid?What boundaries or practices can help me to invite more stillness in?TakeawaysThe journey of softening is ongoing and not a destination.Society often promotes toxic productivity, leading to avoidance of emotions.Vulnerability is crucial for authentic connection and strength.It's important to acknowledge and sit with our grief and pain.Practicing stillness can unlock intuitive wisdom.Reflection prompts can guide us in our softening journey.Softness requires courage to face uncomfortable truths.Numbing behaviors often stem from societal pressures.Creating boundaries is essential for self-care and softness.Softness is a practice that can be cultivated over time.Disclaimer: This podcast is for entertainment purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Nor is it a substitute for professional support. Follow Death on the Daily:Don’t forget to rate, review and subscribe to this podcast. Plus I always love to hear from you, so please do drop a comment or message to me here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/death_onthedaily YouTube: http://youtube.com/@deathonthedaily To connect with Dr Mekel Harris and her invitations to soften, you can follow her here: https://www.instagram.com/drmekelThe theme music for Death on the Daily is ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Set Free by Katie Gray⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, which is used with artist's permission. You can connect with Katie and her music and work here ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.katiegray.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. This podcast is edited by David Strutt, who you can contact here for any editing needs: [email protected]:00: Embracing Vulnerability and Grief02:18: The Journey of Softening05:06: Reflection and Self-Discovery08:00: The Power of Stillness11:14: Awareness and Intuition14:09: Practicing Sacred No's17:23: Invitation to Soften20:16: Closing Reflections and Call to Action