Grief Rituals as a Way to Stay Connected to Your Loved One

Long after the funeral/celebration of life, we continue to love our loved ones. Engaging in grief rituals allows us to acknowledge our loss and continue to connect with that special person. Research has also shown a decrease in depression and anxiety for those who participate in grief ritual on special days. Here are some ideas if you are struggling to get started:

  • building and maintaining a memorial garden
  • getting a tattoo that means something to you and your loved one
  • going on mindful walks on anniversaries connected to that person
  • telling their stories with friends, family, and strangers
  • lighting a candle next to their photo
  • collecting items that remind you of your loved one (I collect heart shaped stones I find on my walks)
  • celebrating their birthday with a special meal
  • cooking their favorite foods
  • listening to their favorite song/watching their favorite movie
  • wearing a favorite shirt or creating a blanket made from their clothes

The list goes on and on. There are so many ways to remember your loved one through grief rituals, even if you didn’t know you were doing it. Feel free to share the ways in which you remember your loved one in the comments!

Blossoms from my weeping cherry tree in my son’s memorial garden

2 responses to “Grief Rituals as a Way to Stay Connected to Your Loved One”

  1. Hello.
    Great article! Engaging in grief rituals is such an important way to continue to connect with our loved ones even after they are gone. The ideas listed here are all wonderful ways to remember and honor our cherished ones.
    Thanks for sharing.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Thanks so much for your feedback!

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