What should I do when grief feels too big to handle alone?
First: that feeling is real, and it's also information. Patanjali distinguished between what we can transform through practice and what requires support from beyond ourselves. Grief that feels too big is often a signal to reach out. This isn't weakness; it's wisdom. Consider a grief counselor or therapist—someone trained to hold the weight with you. Many people find support groups transformative; hearing others say 'me too' can dissolve the isolation that makes grief feel impossible. You might also lean on trusted friends, though be specific about what you need: 'I need someone to sit with me,' not 'fix me.' Meditation and journaling are powerful, but they're not substitutes for human connection. Patanjali taught that mastery comes through practice, but practice means showing up honestly—and sometimes honest practice means admitting you need help. A therapist trained in grief work can teach you techniques to metabolize loss, to move it through your body and mind instead of being stuck under it. There's no shame in this. In fact, seeking support is one of the most transformative practices you can do right now. Your grief is valid. Your need for help is also valid.