Thoughts from Under the Cypress Tree

Guilt and Shame can trap you in a loop: replaying mistakes, hiding, and believing you’re defined by what went wrong. This post explains the difference between guilt (“I did something bad”) and shame (“I am bad”), why they linger, and practical, evidence-based steps—therapy, self-compassion, mindfulness, and reframing—to help you heal and move forward.

Loss touches us all—though not always in the ways we expect. Whether you’re grieving a loved one, a significant relationship, a job, or even a familiar version of yourself, grief isn’t simply about what is lost—it’s about how we live onward. Understanding the grieving process & why there’s no “right” way to grieve gives space to your experience, your pace, and your path. What Is the Grieving Process? Grief is the emotional response to any kind of significant loss. It doesn’t

Grief during the holidays can feel like living in two worlds at once—one filled with lights and laughter, the other heavy with memories and absence. This season doesn’t have to force you into choosing one emotion over another. By gently making space for both sadness and joy, you can honor your loss, protect your emotional well-being, and create moments of meaning in even the hardest holiday seasons.