The short list below are a few things to be aware of before agreeing to attend a grief-related event like [[Staying Tender]] or [[What is community grief tending?|grief ritual]]. By enrolling, I agree that: # I have a good support structure Sometimes trauma work needs to be done before a grief-related event. It is highly recommended for people who live with PTSD &/or CPTSD or any recent or active trauma to have a dependable support system set in place when considering joining a grief ritual space. This support system can look like therapy, community, family, friends, etc. Please consider how this container may impact you if you are living with trauma, and whether you have these systems already established. # I'm aware of the sensitive nature of this type of event In our discussions, participants may touch upon sensitive themes like sexual violence, suicide, war, climate devastation, and genocide while sharing their grief. Take a moment to tune into how your body is feeling while reading this. If you sense that these topics could be overwhelming for your nervous system to process as others express themselves, it is possible that this space isn't the most suitable for your well-being at this time. In that case, thank you for prioritizing your self-care. # I'm aware of some of the physical demands A grief event can be a place with loud sounds, including wailing and raging, sometimes screaming and physical exertion. People can be processing and excavating some intense stuff. These environments can sometimes be alarming to individuals with sensitivities to sound and overstimulation. By enrolling in this retreat, you are accepting a commitment to be your own healer: - to practice healthy coping mechanisms - to be a supportive member of our circle - to research and seek outside support if necessary. - If you are pregnant, have a history of seizures, or have a preexisting health condition, and you are new to grief ritual work, consider consulting your physician before participating in this event. # I acknowledge acute grief sometimes requires its own container If you have recently lost someone in your life in a traumatic or unexpected way, and you are new to grief ritual work, consider consulting your mental health provider/support before participating in this event. # I agree to be on time Recognizing the value of our collaborative journey, your timely arrival is a sign of respect for the space we're nurturing together. Once our ritual begins, the doors will remain closed until its conclusion, ensuring a focused experience for those who embark on this path with us from the start. - Can you commit to attending the entire time? We will be on ritual time, meaning time is left at the door once you enter. Please do not apply if you cannot currently make this commitment. We will have more dates in the future that you can attend. # I'm aware there is no refund or cancellation. It is very normal to encounter resistance before an event like this. This policy helps to hold us all accountable and creates some protection for us as facilitators and organizers. If you are not able to attend for whatever reason after registering, you may find someone else to take your spot. The person who replaces you must also register and needs to be connected with our registration team at least 5 days before the event. In the 5 days leading up to the event, our attention shifts away from managerial tasks and screen time to prepping for our in-person time.