Category Archives: Lending Insight

“The Boy and the Heron” by Hayao Miyazaki

Studio Ghibli portrays a young boy's grief in a mystical fashion

“The Boy and the Heron” is the most recent movie from Studio Ghibli and its legendary filmmaker Hayao Miyazaki. The works of Miyazaki are known for their whimsical storylines; beautiful, hand-drawn animation; and themes of environmentalism and pacifism. “The Boy … Continue reading

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“Good Grief” by Dan Levy

Levy's first departure from comedy provides valuable insight into the messiness of grief

    The opening scene of “Good Grief” aptly sets the stage for Daniel Levy’s directorial film debut, in that it features rich visuals and warm vibes. But the film ultimately lacks the depth we’re left desperately craving by the … Continue reading

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“Two Women Walk Into A Bar” by Cheryl Strayed

A heartwarming book about a relationship brought to life through death

With a book title that alludes to a punchline to follow, “Two Women Walk into a Bar” by Cheryl Strayed is certainly no joking matter. This short, yet poignant, personal story details the author’s strained relationship with her disapproving mother-in-law, … Continue reading

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“How To Change Your Mind” by Michael Pollan

How experiencing the mystical led to a Renaissance in psychedelic research

Public acceptance of psychedelics for palliative care has been rising in recent years, thanks to numerous studies detailing their profound therapeutic effects, which are often triggered by a mystical, transformative experience. It’s precisely that experience, author Michael Pollan reveals in “How to … Continue reading

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“Death Nesting: The Heart-Centered Practices of a Death Doula” by Anne Marie-Keppel

Practical, emotional and spiritual tools to assist someone through the dying process

In her thoughtful guide on approaching death, author Anne-Marie Keppel introduces us to the concept of “death nesting.” In her words, this means “preparing the nest for one who is dying, just as we might prepare a nest for one … Continue reading

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“After Life: Ways We Think About Death” by Merrie-Ellen Wilcox

Follow this author’s exploration into the process of death and what comes after

When young people experience the death of someone, where do they go for insight? In “After Life: Ways We Think About Death” author Merrie-Ellen Wilcox provides some thoughtful information. She addresses the following questions: “Why do we die? Why don’t we … Continue reading

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