LIGHT Movement and the Power of Somatic Healing in Grief

LIGHT Movement and the Power of Somatic Healing in Grief

Hello!

My name is Amy Pickett-Williams, and I’m celebrating twenty-five years as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (happy anniversary to me!). I’m also a yoga teacher specializing in somatic therapy, which explores the connection between mind, body, and spirit.

My journey began twenty-six years ago during my recovery from extensive surgery. Although I wasn’t ill with cancer, I was placed on the oncology floor due to bed availability. My week-long stay was marked by joy, which endeared me to the nurses. They suggested the oncology social worker visit me—a healthy, humorous patient—instead of focusing solely on those who were very ill. Her visit left a profound impact on me, and during our conversation, I asked if she would be open to having an intern the following year. She agreed, and that moment marked the beginning of my humbling career.

In 1998-1999, I interned in the bone marrow transplant unit, where doctors were pioneering transplant procedures for various cancers. The experience was intense, with a mix of success and many losses. My first patient was a man in his forties, a motorcycle rider with a life full of rich experiences. He became my teacher, guiding me through his emotional and physical struggles. I supported him through his worst moments and shared in his fears and tears. His passing, just before I graduated, was a poignant reminder of the profound nature of this work. His final words to me, “I wish I had more time to teach you,” have guided me ever since.

Over the years, my work has extended to various areas: helping the homeless, providing hospice care, supporting children with medically complex conditions, and more. I’ve been present for children and families as they navigate diagnoses, death, and grief. This work has continued into my private practice.

Grief, as I’ve learned, extends beyond death. It encompasses the loss of relationships, health, infertility, independence, employment, housing,safety, peace and even shifts in identity. Grief is universal, affecting everyone in different ways. My work now involves supporting clients through all forms of grief, not just those related to death.

Life, like yours, has its twists and turns. A few years ago, I wrote about how yoga transformed my life. I likened my journey to a Saguaro cactus, initially with straight arms, and later flowing more gracefully as I integrated my experiences. COVID-19 further tested us, especially when our youngest son faced serious health issues. My parents’ support was invaluable during this time.

On October 13, 2020, our lives changed dramatically. While camping with my parents, a gust of wind caused my father to fall and sustain a fatal head injury. For over a year, I juggled caring for my children, my mom, and my own grief. My husband and friends were my anchors.

My father, an education lawyer and advocate for children’s rights, had long encouraged me to share my experiences. Despite my introverted nature, his influence guided me to do so. On my 47th birthday, a hiking accident led to a life-changing event. After a severe fall of over 40 feet, a Juniper tree miraculously stopped my descent and saved my life.  In my recovery from 600 cactus spines, a fractured tibia, a severe concussion and severe bruising, scans from the fall led to the discovery that I had cancer, which I successfully treated. The Juniper tree’s presence was a symbol of the interconnectedness of life and the mystery of our journeys.

In my recovery, I’ve embraced my father’s legacy and the concept of LIGHT—Love In Grief, Held Together. This idea reflects the connection between love and grief and the need to support all who are grieving. I’ve seen a growing movement around this concept, with dedicated volunteers joining the effort.

We have four goals in the LIGHT Movement

1. Remind people they are not alone.
2. Teach somatic, mind-body tools for integration and finding purpose & meaning in grief.
3. Provide other grief resources and support.
4. Stand in solidarity for all people and all types of grief. 

Our vision is to bring LIGHT to the global community. We hold events, including grief gatherings, somatic-based classes, trainings, and retreats, both virtually and in-person. Additionally, we’re starting an educational program for youth, supporting them in their education and development through intergenerational support and somatic-based tools.

Thank you for taking the time to read this. I invite you to join us in sharing this movement.  Please check out our many offerings.  Imagine the LIGHT shining on the darkest days of the year—a beacon of hope, love, and compassion. Our world needs this LIGHT now more than ever.

Much peace to you all,

Amy

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You are invited to join LIGHT Movement for their upcoming event: 

We will come together in community to:

• Explore the Grief Journey – Discover how grief resides within our bodies and gain tools to navigate this emotional voyage.
• Embrace Community – Engage in meaningful conversations, gentle movement, breathwork, and the harmonious power of music.
• Hold a Candlelight Remembrance – As the Winter Solstice envelops us, we’ll come together in person and through a live stream to heal, remember, and honor together.

​​This event is open to people of all spiritual backgrounds.  ***Virtual participants, please have a candle available***

https://www.lightmvmt.com/offerings/events

And the upcoming workshop in partnership with HeartLight Center

Growing with our Grief: Understanding the Science and Tools for Somatic Healing – Denver at HeartLight Center