Dying & Death: Navigating Bereavement, Loss & Grief [Online]

In the Shambhala tradition, discovering fearlessness comes from working with the softness of the human heart.

—Chögyam Trungpa Rinpoche

No prerequisites. Open to all levels of experience.

In this session we will explore bereavement, loss, and grief while unpacking some of our own unique vulnerabilities and fears. In addition, there will be opportunities to discuss how we might build a life alongside impermanence and change rather than seeking to push it away or overcome it. 

What You Will Gain:

• An opportunity to explore “impermanence” in a safe, compassionate, and contemplative community
• An opportunity to practice meditation from comforts of your own home and/or practice space 
• An opportunity to make a heartfelt connection with others
• Q&A and more

What to Bring:

• An open heart and mind
• A journal 
• Prayer beads / mala  

Recommended Reading Material [Not Required]:

Navigating Grief and Loss: 25 Buddhist Practices to Keep Your Heart Open to Yourself and Others by Kimberly Brown

How to Live When a Loved One Dies by Thich Nhat Hanh 

Please consider donating to support end-of-life programming. Donate here using the 'Other' category. In the notes option put EOL or the program name. 

Instructors: 

Meli-Tashi Happy is the End-of-Life Coordinator for Seattle Shambhala Center, a death doula, and somatic educator. Her Buddhist path began in 1997 in the Zen tradition, and in 2007 she found the Shambhala teachings. She’s taken Refuge and Bodhisattva Vows, and is a vajrayana student. She helps foster ‘community death care’ education and connections. 

[email protected]

Chaplain Alley Smith (she/her) is a Zen Buddhist Chaplain, Fire Chaplain, and Firefighter in training. Alley is a US military war veteran. During her career, Alley served with the military funeral honors teams in the US Marine Corps and Navy Reserve. She specializes in spiritual care, mortuary affairs and as a funeral clergy/celebrant.  Alley currently hosts "Making Friends with Death and Dying: Support Group" on Shambhala Online. 

[email protected]