The Grieving Body: How the Stress of Loss Can Be an Opportunity for Healing

In her second book on grief, O’Connor (psychology, Univ. of Arizona; The Grieving Brain) addresses grieving and bereavement, processes that are often disregarded in society. This title serves as a guide to anyone hoping to reduce the suffering that emerges after a loss. O’Connor recognizes that grief has both physiological and emotional effects, and the initial chapters examine the physical and potential medical impacts of grief on the cardiovascular system, liver, lungs, brain, immune system, and sympathetic nervous system. The second section considers grief as an opportunity for healing. O’Connor provides a toolkit of coping strategies to assist in the healing process, including establishing healthy eating habits, treating insomnia or sleep issues, employing mediation or mindfulness techniques, addressing loneliness, and showing oneself compassion and kindness. The book cites medical journals and includes data in some chapters, which are still approachable for lay readers. O’Connor also discusses significant theories, such as attachment and cognitive stress theory, to explain death’s impact. She emphasizes that people who are grieving often don't get enough time off work (especially in the U.S.), which can heighten the physical impacts.