🎄 Struggling with grief this holiday season? You're not alone. In Episode 28 of the Brain Lady Podcast, neurotherapist Karen D. Wood (in her festive "ugly Christmas sweater"!) and guest Phil unpack the brain's response to loss during Christmas. From the shock of the first holiday without a loved one to the fog that lingers for up to two years, discover why your synapses are firing with memories—and what to do about it.

Key Highlights:
Neurology of Grief: Explore how the hippocampus stores memories like "object trace cells" and "place cells," illustrated by rat maze experiments where habits persist even after rewards vanish. Imagine millions of neurons searching for a missing person!

Holiday Challenges: 50% of people experience heightened grief due to unresolved trauma or loneliness. Learn why phrases like "Merry Christmas" can trigger pain, and why it's okay to say no to family events or "go under" for self-care.

Clear Thinking Solutions: A 4-step process to notice tension, envision outcomes, accept realities (without approval), and build a "best brain" picture. Tools include deep breathing, sitting straight for parasympathetic calm, humming songs, and using "tension boxes" to organize overwhelming emotions.
Unresolved Trauma Tips: Grief can unleash past issues like family blame, inheritance fights, or childhood memories—handle them one box at a time. For high-trauma backgrounds, seek support from therapists or life coaches.
Faith & Inspiration: References to Proverbs 14, Isaiah 41:10, and Psalm 23 for strength, plus visualizing verses with Google images for better brain retention.
Personal Stories: Karen shares her mother's "fog lift" after 2+ years, and Phil reflects on his mom's passing 15 years ago, showing grief evolves but impacts endure.

If you're facing post-traumatic stress (response, not disorder!), aim for PTSG: Post-Traumatic Stress Grace. Embrace honest holidays—pull in friends for support, watch old videos, or cry it out. Science says your brain is designed to solve this; give it time, water, and grace.
👍 Like if this resonates, subscribe for weekly mind-expanding content, and share with someone grieving. Comment below: What's your toughest holiday memory? Buy Karen's book Brain Prayers for more on brain health, and stay tuned for her upcoming grief book.

Timestamps:
00:00 - Intro & Ugly Sweater Vibes
02:30 - Client Quote: Feeling "Trepidious"
05:45 - Neurology of Grief Explained
10:20 - Rat Maze & Memory Cells
15:10 - Why Holidays Hurt (Loneliness Stats)
20:00 - Clear Thinking Solutions
25:30 - Handling Unresolved Trauma
30:15 - Body Tools for Healing (Breathing, Humming)
35:40 - Faith Verses & Moving Forward
40:00 - Closing Tips & Merry (Honest) Christmas

#HolidayGrief #BrainNeurology #GriefHealing #ChristmasMentalHealth #BrainLadyPodcast #KarenDWood #NeurosciencePodcast

For more information on her podcast Brain Lady Notes from the Couch with Karen D. Wood visit: https://www.brainladypodcast.com/, with links to all episodes.

🎙️ The Brain Lady Podcast – Notes from the Couch
Unravel brain mysteries with practical tools for growth. All episodes: brainladypodcast.com

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📧 Contact Karen: brainlady@karendwood.com
Clear Thinking Solutions, Inc. (Non-Profit for Trauma Recovery)
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🚨 Disclaimer: The Brain Lady Podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. Karen shares personal stories and knowledge for insights and growth. It's not a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult qualified professionals for mental health needs. References to sessions protect client privacy.

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