Grief Rarely Moves in a Straight Line
It ebbs and flows like a tide. Somedays it is a dull ache beneath the surface, and other times it is a wave that pulls you completely under.
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Society often expects us to explain how we feel, find "closure," or simply move on. But deep grief, whether it comes from a physical death, the end of a defining relationship, an unresolved estrangement, or a devastating health shift, is stored in the non-verbal body. It lives as a tight throat, a heavy chest, or even total exhaustion.
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When loss is this heavy, talking in circles can feel draining. You do not need someone to fix your pain, silver-line your reality, or offer unsolicited advice.
You need a steady shoreline where your grief is allowed to just be.
About the Group
The Shoreline of Grief is a closed, 8-week somatic and expressive arts circle. It is designed to help you gently process bereavement, relational loss, and major life shifts without the pressure to perform or speak perfectly.
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In this space, we rely on somatic nervous-system regulation (breath pacing, physical grounding, and tracking sensation) and tactile expressive art-making (charcoal, torn paper, ink, and textiles). These tools allow you to give grief a physical shape outside of your body, making the invisible weight tangible.
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We practice somatic pacing, learning how to titrate the waves of grief so they do not overwhelm your daily window of tolerance.
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No art skills are required. You only need a willingness to meet yourself with gentleness.
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The Details & Logistics
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Location: Secure Online Zoom Video
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Time: Wednesdays 7pm - 830pm
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Duration: 90 minutes weekly for 8 weeks. Starts September 30, 2026.
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Size: Strictly capped at 6 to 7 participants to maintain depth and emotional safety.
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Investment: $50 CAD per session ($400 total for the 8 weeks).
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How to Register
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To protect the safety of the group, I meet with every prospective member for a brief conversation prior to registration. This ensures the group format is the right level of support for your specific season of grief.
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Step 1: Book a free, 30-minute call using the link below.
Step 2: We will chat briefly about where you are at, and ensure the group structure feels safe and supportive for your nervous system.
Step 3: Once confirmed, you will receive a registration link, consent forms, and a simple list of household art materials to gather before we begin.
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Facilitated by Chari Tomczak
RP(Q), CT, RTC, Professional Art Therapist
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Chari brings a deep reverence for the non-verbal spaces of healing. Drawing on clinical neurobiology, somatic pacing, and expressive arts, she helps clients navigate grief, life thresholds, and relational repair without relying solely on traditional talk therapy. Tidewaters Therapy Services is based in Alberta, providing grounded, trauma-informed care across Turtle Island.
