Atlanta Music Pioneer Shanti Das Releases Guidebook to Support Grieving Individuals During the Holidays

Atlanta’s Shanti Das Offers Comfort and Guidance During Grief with New Guidebook

ATLANTA — With the holiday season fast approaching, the struggle of navigating grief during what is typically a cheerful time can be overwhelming for many. Shanti Das, a prominent music pioneer, philanthropist, and mental health advocate from Atlanta, has stepped in to help lighten the burden with her newly released pocket guide titled “Have Yourself a Merry Little Griefmas.” Filled with practical tips and heartfelt advice, this guide aims to assist those grappling with loss while trying to enjoy the holiday season.

A Journey Through Grief

Shanti, who has an impressive background as a veteran music executive at big-name companies like LaFace, Arista, Sony, and Universal Motown Records, has faced her share of grief. Since childhood, she has endured significant losses, including her father who passed away from suicide when she was just a baby. “I lost a number of loved ones over the years, including my sister and mother. So, I know a good bit about navigating the grief journey,” Shanti shares.

Realizing that many others could benefit from her experiences, Shanti started working on the guide over a year ago to offer reassurance and coping strategies for those who might find themselves feeling lonely or lost during the festivities. With collaboration from friends adding their own tips, the guidebook has blossomed into a valuable resource.

Honoring Feelings

“This is typically a festive and fun time of year,” Das explains, “but the holidays can really be a struggle for many who are missing a loved one.” The essence of her guide emphasizes the importance of honoring feelings and not succumbing to societal pressures about how one should feel during the season. “Don’t let anyone tell you how you are supposed to be doing or feeling. It’s essential to allow yourself the space to feel and heal,” she advises.

She also encourages those suffering to engage with their communities through volunteering as a way to uplift their spirits. “Helping others can significantly alleviate the sadness you might be experiencing,” Shanti suggests.

Community and Connection

Shanti believes that connection is vital during tough times. “It’s important to let community in, with family, friends, and the people who love you,” Shanti states. Isolation can worsen feelings of sadness, especially during festive times when the contrast of joy and sorrow can be overwhelming. “The hardest part sometimes is finding yourself home alone, listening to Christmas music that makes you sad, leading you down a rabbit hole,” she admits. Hence her advice: “Get active, try to be social if it’s not too hard, and let at least one person in.”

Keeping Memories Alive

One of the guide’s valuable tips is finding unique ways to honor loved ones lost. Shanti suggests creating traditions, like decorating a tree with ornaments that carry the photos of loved ones or establishing foundations in their name. “The most important thing is to think of ways to keep that memory alive,” she encourages. Other ideas include crafting a memory book or even planting a tree.

Travel and New Experiences

Shanti personally finds comfort in travel during the holidays. “Being in new environments helps me cope, especially when the weight of old memories feels too heavy,” she reveals. One of her favorite tips is to find ways to prepare before the holidays. This could mean starting a grief support group or simply making plans for a getaway. “Staying off social media can also help,” she advises, as it allows one to focus inward rather than be swallowed by the highlights of others’ lives.

Reaching Out for Help

Finally, Shanti encourages those who may be struggling mentally to not hesitate in seeking support. “There’s nothing wrong with needing help,” she states. Her organization, which advocates mental health awareness, offers resources for those in need. “If you’re feeling low, talk to your doctor, or reach out through resources available in your community. Don’t struggle alone.”

For those interested in purchasing the guide or getting involved in volunteer opportunities, Shanti’s work continues to inspire and uplift those around her. This guidebook just might be the gentle nudge needed to begin healing this holiday season.