A contemplative practice where young people regularly turn attention inward to observe their grief, emotions, and evolving relationship with loss without judgment or attempts to change what arises.
Mirabai's tradition emphasizes turning inward with fierce honesty—examining one's own heart as the primary spiritual work. This translates into a concrete practice for grieving children: regular, gentle self-inquiry. Rather than journaling narratively, examined heart practice invites young people to sit quietly and simply notice what's present—sadness, anger, confusion, moments of peace, memories, physical sensations. The practice requires no fixing, no achieving emotional stages, no timeline. A facilitator or parent might ask: "What does your heart need to tell you today? What feeling is asking for attention?" This develops emotional granularity; children learn to distinguish between anger and hurt, between longing and loneliness. Over time, the practice builds genuine self-knowledge and self-compassion. Unlike cognitive approaches that intellectualize grief, examined heart practice honors the body's wisdom and the heart's truth. For young people, this becomes a refuge—a place where their grief is genuinely known and witnessed.
Peri can explain this concept, give practical examples, help you decide whether it applies to your situation, or recommend a journey if appropriate.
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