ERP 453: How To Navigate Grief In Long-Term Relationship — An Interview With Christina Rasmussen

Navigating the tumultuous seas of grief and maintaining long-term relationships is no small feat. Whether it's dealing with the loss of a loved one, experiencing the invisible wounds of unacknowledged grief, or simply trying to find a balance between independence and partnership, many find themselves overwhelmed. How does one transition from anger to trust, from isolation to intimacy, while respecting the complexities of their emotions and relational dynamics? In this episode, we'll explore practical strategies and heartfelt insights to help you navigate these challenging waters. Discover how personal spirituality, a scientific mindset, and philosophical wisdom can intertwine to provide guidance and support on your journey. Learn about the life reentry process, understand the concept of invisible losses, and gain valuable advice on shifting perspectives to unlock the potential for fulfilling relationships and personal growth. Through real-life experiences of overcoming profound grief and the transformative power of vulnerability, this episode offers a beacon for those seeking a path from survival to thriving in their emotional and relational lives. Christina Rasmussen is an acclaimed grief educator and bestselling author of Second Firsts (Hay House, 2013), Where Did You Go? (Harper One, 2018), and Invisible Loss (Sounds True, 2024). In 2010, four years after her spouse passed away from Stage 4 colon cancer, she created the Life Reentry process. Christina holds a master’s degree in guidance and counseling (University of Durham). She is finishing her master of fine arts degree in painting and drawing (Academy of Art). Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 9:49 Christina’s journey from the corporate world to grief author. 14:33 The role of intuition and the universe’s support. 19:23 Navigating new relationships after loss. 27:05 How people often remain in survival mode after trauma, not recognizing the potential for a fulfilling life beyond their past hardships. 28:20 Identifying and addressing invisible losses. 37:51 The complexities of balancing financial independence and trust in new relationships. 43:42 Long-term relationship dynamics continuous growth and understanding within marriage. 48:59 The concept of invisible loss: Unseen griefs and their impact on life progress. 50:33 Hope and transformation through life reentry: Shifting perspectives and embracing future possibilities. Mentioned Invisible Loss (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) Second Firsts (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) Where Did You Go? (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) Life Reentry (website) The 31-Day Kindness Challenge (free guide) (pdf) Connect with Christina Rasmussen Websites: christinarasmussen.com Facebook: facebook.com/Secondfirsts X: x.com/Secondfirsts Instagram: instagram.com/christinarasmussen7 Connect with Dr. Jessica Higgins Facebook: facebook.com/EmpoweredRelationship  Instagram: instagram.com/drjessicahiggins  Podcast: drjessicahiggins.com/podcasts/ Pinterest: pinterest.com/EmpowerRelation  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drjessicahiggins  Twitter: @DrJessHiggins  Website: drjessicahiggins.com   Email: jessica@drjessicahiggins.com If you have a topic you would like me to discuss, please contact me by clicking on the “Ask Dr. Jessica Higgins” button here.  Thank you so much for your interest in improving your relationship.  Also, I would so appreciate your honest rating and review. Please leave a review by clicking here.  Thank you!   *With Amazon Affiliate Links, I may earn a few cents from Amazon, if you purchase the book from this link.