Your Head Doesn't Know What Your Heart Feels

By: Myles O'Riordan
Friday, December 15, 2023

At Wagg Funeral Home, we have seen that when a loved one passes away, the world can feel like it's been flipped on its axis. Grief, in its raw and overwhelming state, often creates a disconnect between our head and heart; your head doesn't know what your heart feels.

While our mind may understand the finality of death, our heart struggles to accept it, clinging to memories and yearning for what can never be.

Your Head Doesn't Know What Your Heart Feels

In the early stages of grief, the head tries to take control. It processes the logistics, arranges the funeral, and handles the practicalities of life without the deceased. Yet, beneath this surface of order, the heart churns with a storm of emotions: sadness, anger, confusion, and a deep, aching longing. This internal conflict between the head's need to function and the heart's unyielding grief can be incredibly challenging.

One common manifestation of this disconnect is the feeling of numbness. The head may know the loss, but the heart refuses to acknowledge it. This numbness can act as a protective shield, allowing us to function through the immediate aftermath without being consumed by the pain. But while it may provide temporary relief, it also hinders the natural healing process.

Another way the disconnect manifests is through intrusive thoughts and memories. The head tries to focus on the present, but the heart is constantly drawn back to the past. Images of the deceased, cherished moments shared, and unfulfilled plans can flood the mind, causing a constant emotional rollercoaster. These intrusive thoughts, while painful, are a normal part of the grieving process as the heart tries to grapple with the reality of the loss.

How To Bridge The Gap Between Head And Heart

Despite the disconnect, it's important to remember that the head and the heart are not enemies. They are two sides of the same coin, working together to process the loss and find healing. The head provides the framework for understanding the situation, while the heart allows us to feel the full spectrum of grief. Here are some ways to bridge the gap between head and heart during this difficult time:

  • Acknowledge your emotions
  • Engage in activities that nourish your heart
  • Be patient

Be kind to yourself, allow your emotions to flow, and seek support when needed. The love you shared with your loved one will never be lost, and it will continue to guide you through this difficult journey.

For more information on your head doesn't know what your heart feels, Please call Wagg Funeral Home at 905-985-2171 or drop us a line. You can also send us your queries through this Online Form, and we will call you back to answer any questions. 

Leave a comment
Name*:
Email:
Comment*:
Please enter the numbers and letters you see in the image. Note that the case of the letters entered matters.

Comments

Please wait

Previous Posts

What to Do When a Loved One is Nearing the End of Their Life

Nearing the end of life brings changes for everyone involved. It's a time of reflection, a reminder of the nature of our existence, and an opportunity to strengthen the bonds that define our humani...

6 Ways To Personalize Your Loved One's Gravesite

For many, a gravesite serves as a physical place to visit and connect with a loved one who has passed away. While traditional headstones allow for basic engravings of names and dates, we at Wagg Fu...

How To Make Sense Of Intense Emotions

Emotions can be powerful and overwhelming experiences, leaving us on an emotional rollercoaster. Whether it's intense joy, crippling sadness, or simmering anger, these intense feelings can often ca...

Helping Children Understand Loss

The death of a loved one is an experience no child should have to face, but it is an unfortunate reality for many. When children lose a parent, grandparent, sibling, or other significant person in ...

How To Talk To Your Loved Ones About Your Final Wishes

Though difficult, expressing your final wishes to loved ones is an essential act of care and preparedness. Planning for end-of-life brings peace of mind that your preferences will be honored. It a...

What Is A Funeral Celebrant?

In times of loss and mourning, families seek solace in honoring their loved ones with a meaningful farewell. While traditional funeral services often involve religious officiants, there is a growin...

How To Talk To Your Loved Ones About Your Final Wishes

Though difficult, expressing your final wishes to loved ones is an essential act of care and preparedness. Planning for end-of-life brings peace of mind that your preferences will be honored. It a...

Our Favorite Ideas For Creating A Unique Service

Planning a service to honor a loved one’s life can be an opportunity to create a memorable and unique experience that reflects their individuality. Incorporating some favorite ideas for creating a ...

What Cremation Products Are Available For Purchase?

Cremation has become an increasingly popular choice for individuals and families when considering end-of-life arrangements. As cremation continues to grow, many clients at our funeral home ask- wha...

What Can You Do With The Ashes Of A Cremated Loved One?

Cremation has become an increasingly popular choice for end-of-life arrangements, offering individuals and families more flexibility and personalization in commemorating their loved ones. One ques...