The Florida Medium

03/04/2026

and then i realized how both violent and tender grief could be.

full poem previously posted 💜

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02/28/2026

Another reason why its so important to have compassion for those who are grieving.

New brain research confirms prolonged grief disorder is a distinct neurological condition, not just a lingering emotional state.

For approximately five percent of bereaved individuals, the pain of loss does not fade with time, but instead manifests as prolonged grief disorder (PGD). Recent neuroimaging studies reveal that this condition is rooted in specific brain activity rather than a simple lack of resilience. In those with PGD, the brain’s reward system—specifically the nucleus accumbens—becomes "locked" onto the memory of the deceased. This creates a neurological loop of intense yearning that fails to adapt to the present, while heightened activity in the amygdala and hippocampus triggers profound distress at reminders of death. This unique neural profile makes it physically difficult for the individual to regulate emotions or find joy in new experiences.

These biological insights are critical because they distinguish PGD from other conditions like depression or PTSD. Unlike depression, PGD involves a chronic "reward-seeking" yearning for the lost loved one rather than the avoidance behaviors typically seen in trauma. Recognizing these differences allows for more precise medical interventions; for instance, while PGD typically resists traditional antidepressants, it responds effectively to grief-specific psychotherapies. By identifying high-risk brain connectivity patterns shortly after a loss, clinicians may soon be able to predict who will develop chronic symptoms and provide early, specialized support to prevent years of debilitating suffering.

source: Thomson, H. (2026). Why some people cannot move on from the death of a loved one. New Scientist.

02/25/2026

Some great opportunities to come see me are coming up! And if you're interested on the Online Gallery Reading, early bird pricing is available now until March 5!

01/30/2026

"sorrow shared is sorrow softened"

01/30/2026

One helpful way to understand grief comes from Lois Tonkin.

Tonkin’s theory challenges the idea that grief fades, resolves, or disappears with time. Instead, it suggests this: grief stays the same size, but life grows around it.

In the beginning, grief can feel all-consuming. It takes up everything. Over time, new experiences, relationships, routines, and moments of meaning slowly expand the space around the grief. The pain doesn’t vanish. It’s just no longer the only thing present.

This matters because it removes the pressure to “get over it.”

If your grief still feels heavy years later, that doesn’t mean you’re stuck.
If moments of joy coexist with deep sorrow, that doesn’t mean you’re betraying your loss.

Grief doesn’t ask to be erased.
It asks to be carried, alongside a life that continues to grow.

Both can be true at the same time.

01/26/2026

If you're in the Gainesville area, come join our group Gainesville, FL Spiritual Community!

01/25/2026

Happy follow-versary to my awesome followers. Thanks for all your support! Mliss Marie Spencer

01/17/2026

The world feels so heavy. I'd love to gift anyone struggling an energy clearing session.🖤

01/16/2026

I just want to cheer on all the Mom's and Dad's raising kids and keeping their nervous systems regulated while the world is such a mess. 🖤

01/05/2026

I’ve struggled with rest for a long time. Sitting still and doing nothing used to make me feel uncomfortable, like I should be doing something.

Over the past couple of weeks, I’ve intentionally slowed down—and surprisingly, it’s been incredibly refreshing.

So as we ease back into Monday after the holidays and the routine starts again, this is your reminder that rest is part of taking care of yourself. You don’t have to push so hard today. 🖤