Q: I have been overwhelmed with grief from the results of the terrorist attacks on our nation. Watching TV, listening to the radio and always thinking of the victims and their families has me unable to function. What can I do to stop the grieving?

A: You are not alone, we are a nation of grieving souls. You are very normal and your grief is part of healing. It will get better for you and our nation. Keep talking to friends, neighbors and loved ones about your emotional upsets. Grieving with others allows you to confront your pain. Participating in candle light vigils, prayer and demonstrating your solidarity to this great nation will also help your healing process.

Physically avoid being dormant or stuck in front of your TV. Physical activity, exercise or even a walk along the beach or in the woods can ground your emotions. Remember to breathe and appreciate the beauty in your environment. Spend time with small children to remind yourself to laugh and be uninhibited.

Your brain is an organ just like your liver or kidney and it needs to rest occasionally. Grieving excessively can tax your brain and make you feel overwhelmed and fatigued. Don’t stop grieving until you feel completely content you are done. Do take breaks and step away from the intensity to keep balance. Eat properly. Grieving can result in eating too much, too little or eating with a poor nutritious diet.

Get enough sleep and try to do a little relaxation prior to bed. Meditate, listen to comforting music or take a warm bath. Avoid watching TV right before bed because it leaves subliminal messages with you that can interrupt sleep.

Always remember to tell all your loved ones you love them. It is terrible that it takes a disaster to remind us of the important but simple daily measures we sometimes take for granted.

There is healing and comfort around the corner for you and America. We grow and heal in direct proportion to the catastrophic event that wounds us. Remember that we are wounded as a whole nation, but we will remain the most loving and caring people on this planet. The world is watching us to see how we heal. America has always been the leader in all worldly transformations.

I am confident we can teach the world how to heal, by our own unified efforts as a nation and God’s protection. God Bless America.

Quote of the week: Healing in its fullest sense requires looking into our heart and expanding our awareness of who we are. Mitchell Gaynor