ROCKPORT — Grief and the attempts made to manage its are personal.
But Tuesday, beginning at 5 p.m., grief therapist and bereaved parent Anita Pandolfe Ruchman will offer advice on how to grieve at the free seminar “Being with Grief, An Evening of Comfort and Insight,” in the Brenner Roomat the Rockport Public Library, 17 School St. The session is aimed at offering those coping with loss or the death of a loved one a compassionate space for learning and healing.
“Allow yourself to be with it, feel it and also engage in soothing, calming practices,” Pandolfe Ruchman said.
She will explore facets of grief, offer practical coping mechanisms and grief experiences and share references and resources to support those grieving.
Pandolfe Ruchman, who operates the private practice A Tender Place in Rockport, brings five decades of experience in the healing arts — as a massage therapist, registered nurse, midwife, childbirth educator psychiatric nurse practitioner and holistic psychotherapist.
Following the sudden loss of her daughter in 2010, Pandolfe Ruchman embraced a two-year period of personal healing during which she deepened her understanding of grief and bereavement.
Since then, she has led grief support groups and retreats, inspired by her long-term practice of Tibetan Buddhism. She brings mindfulness and meditation into her therapeutic approach.
Osha Rose, adult program coordinator at the Rockport Public Library, said part of the grieving process involves reaching out to other people. She said the library has also hosted biweekly a representative to offer support for those grieving from the Eastern Essex Regional Public Health Coalition.
Rose said dozens may participate in Tuesday’s seminar.
“We are hoping to fill the room with 75-100 people but it may be a smaller group of 40-50,” she said, adding participation and reaching out is imperative for those who grieve.
“Acknowledging there is a benefit to be had from attending an event like this is the first step in preparing for a grief event,” she said. “Then, showing up and bringing a friend is the next.”
Rose encouraged those grieving to reach out for help.
“Ask for help, either from family and friends, resources provided from people or our local librarians,” she said.
This presentation will conclude with a question and answer session, allowing for personal reflection. Registration is suggested; more can be learned online at www.rockportlibrary.org/events. Drop-ins are welcomed.