Namasté

Ep. 031 with Kristen Gustke

As someone who has navigated the challenging waters of grief, I know how essential it is to find solace and healing. Recently, I had the pleasure of speaking with Kristen Gustke, a certified yoga therapist specializing in chronic pain management. Our conversation resonated with me deeply, not just as a mother but also as someone who has experienced grief in various forms. Kristen’s insights into how yoga can be a therapeutic tool for healing and emotional release were truly enlightening.

Kristen's Journey into Yoga

Kristen's journey into yoga began at a young age, when she felt quite lonely, due to her family's frequent moves. At age 13, seeking comfort, she turned to a yoga book her mother had. Little did she know, this would be the foundation for her lifelong practice. "I fell in love with yoga quickly," she shared, recounting how her initial solo practice evolved over the years. After obtaining her college degree and raising three children, Kristen felt a renewed calling to teach yoga, which she began in 2007 while living overseas.

Her experiences living in the Netherlands and traveling across Europe enriched her practice, allowing her to absorb various cultural perspectives on yoga and wellness. Kristen emphasized that yoga is not just about physical postures; it’s a holistic approach that integrates body, mind, and spirit. This perspective has been vital in her work, especially in helping those dealing with chronic pain and unresolved grief.

Grieving in Many Forms

 When I asked Kristen about her personal experiences with grief, she opened up about the many layers of loss we encounter in life. "Grief is a wide brush that can be painted in many colors," she said. While many associate grief with the death of a loved one, Kristen pointed out that we are constantly grieving aspects of our lives. From the loss of our childhood to the changes that come with our children growing up, grief is an ongoing process.

 Kristen’s own experiences with grief were profound. She shared how her divorce brought a deep sense of loss—not just of the relationship, but of the life she had envisioned for her family. "I had to grieve not just the loss of my partner but also the relationship with his family and the idea of my children growing up in a two-parent household," she reflected. That raw honesty struck a chord with me, reminding me that grief is multifaceted and often intertwined with our everyday experiences.

The Therapeutic Power of Yoga

One of the most compelling parts of our conversation was how Kristen described the therapeutic benefits of yoga in managing grief and chronic pain. "Yoga helps us develop awareness of how we hold emotions in our bodies," she explained. Our bodies, she noted, often store grief and trauma, which can manifest as physical pain or emotional distress.

 Through yoga, we can cultivate awareness of our bodies and emotions. Kristen emphasized that awareness is the first step toward healing. "When we recognize how our bodies react to grief—tight shoulders, shallow breathing—we can begin to address those feelings," she said. This resonated with me deeply as I reflected on how often I had ignored my body's signals in the face of emotional pain.

 Kristen also spoke about the difference between primary and secondary grief. Primary grief is the immediate emotional pain we feel when we experience a significant loss, while secondary grief arises from unresolved feelings and memories triggered by that primary grief. "Yoga allows us to confront these secondary feelings, helping us process and heal," she added.

Embracing the Healing Journey

Kristen shared that healing doesn’t mean forgetting our grief; rather, it means learning to coexist with it. "Healing is about saying, ‘I will be okay,’ even when pain resurfaces," she explained. This concept of embracing grief rather than suppressing it is transformative. I found comfort in her assertion that it’s okay to feel pain and acknowledge it as part of our journey.

In our conversation, Kristen illustrated this idea beautifully. She described yoga as a way to step into the void created by loss and find peace within it. "It’s about being okay with the discomfort and recognizing that it's a part of life," she affirmed. This perspective is something I strive to embody as I navigate my own grief journey.

The Mind-Body Connection

One of the most significant insights from our conversation was the importance of the mind-body connection. Kristen explained that yoga is a practice that integrates both aspects, helping us become more attuned to our feelings and physical sensations. "Our bodies are always communicating with us," she noted. "When we learn to listen, we can better understand what we need emotionally and physically."

She also highlighted the role of breath in this process. "Breath acts as the bridge between the mind and body," Kristen said. By focusing on our breath during yoga, we can calm our nervous system and foster a sense of safety. This is especially crucial for those of us who struggle with feelings of unworthiness or anxiety, as I have.

Encouragement for Others

As a mother, I often think about how I can model resilience and healing for my children. Kristen’s words provided a gentle reminder that it’s okay for us to seek help and embrace our vulnerabilities. "Creating a safe space for ourselves—whether through yoga, meditation, or simply finding quiet moments—allows us to process our grief," she advised.

It’s essential to approach our healing journeys with curiosity and openness. Kristen emphasized that if we feel safe, we can begin to explore our emotions and experiences without fear. "Curiosity allows us to peel back the layers of our grief," she explained. This mindset is something I intend to foster in my own life, both for myself and hopefully for my children and grandchildren.

Conclusion: A Lifeline in Yoga

 In closing, my conversation with Kristen Gustke was a beautiful reminder of the healing power of yoga and the importance of embracing our grief. As I reflect on her insights, I feel a renewed sense of hope and understanding. Yoga is not just about stretching; it’s a profound practice that allows us to connect with ourselves and process our emotions.

 For anyone navigating the complex landscape of grief, I encourage you to explore yoga as a therapeutic tool. It offers a pathway to healing, self-awareness, and ultimately, peace. Remember, it’s okay to grieve, and it’s okay to seek help. We are all on this journey together, and with each step, we can find comfort and connection amidst the pain.