Doing Grief Community Healing Project is offering a series of creative and restorative programs this December designed to lift spirits, foster connection and support emotional well-being.

The kickoff event, “Theater Play! Interactive Theater Games & Activities to Foster Joy and Connection,” takes place noon-1 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 2, in the fitness room at Banner Olive Branch Senior Center, 13049 N. 103rd Ave. Led by Shea Darian, theater artist and director of the Doing Grief Community Healing Project, participants will engage in simple theater games that encourage play, laughter and community building. No acting experience required.

“In the past, grievers were encouraged to express and talk about their pain. Now we know there’s more to healing grief than focusing on the suffering caused by a loss,” Darian explains. “Sometimes, we need a good diversion from our suffering. The arts and play can inspire joy, belonging, and a sense of fun even when sorrow runs deep.”

Darian, who holds a B.A. in theater with an emphasis in acting and directing, has taught acting to students aged 4 to 94 and directed numerous community theater productions.

“There’s nothing like theater games to help you rediscover your love for play and connection so you can take your mind off your pain,” she adds.

Doing Grief Community Healing Project is an initiative of the 501(c)(3) nonprofit Doing Grief, whose mission is to empower grievers, caregivers and care providers to be their own best healers as they navigate death, loss or any life change that causes grief. The project provides grief education, healing arts workshops, spiritual enrichment programs and small group grief support that Darian refers to as “life support.”

“Healing grief is a life-long journey from infancy to old age as we experience the losses of a lifetime,” Darian explains. “Mixing a good dose of fun and laughter with your sorrow and tears can help to balance you emotionally and revive your motivation and zest for life.”

Upcoming December Programs

• 10-10:45 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 4, and Thursday, Dec. 18 (fitness room) _ Healing with Chair Yoga offered by Yoga with Oma, Instructor Heike Newman.
• 12:30-2:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 9 (dining room) — Playing with Color! Wet-on-Wet Watercolor Painting with Dr. Andrew Darian, educator.
• Noon-2 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 11 (movie room) — Story Circle Small Group on the theme of “Hope” with Shea Darian, spiritual care provider.
• Noon-1 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 18 (movie room) — Healing the Holiday Blues: Spiritual Practices to Acknowledge Your Grief & Lift Your Spirits with Darian and Deb Fleming, sacred movement artist.

Suggested donation is $5–10 (may be given online or at the door). All are welcome, regardless of ability to pay. RSVP by calling 623-465-6000 or emailing Connect@DoingGrief.org.

Visit DoingGrief.org to learn more.