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Grief can sometimes weigh us down, preventing us from truly celebrating the lives of those we have lost. Despite the amount of time we remain in the stages of bargaining and depression, finding the strength to heal and accept life for what it is welcomes the ease that allows us to slowly incorporate small ways we can celebrate those no longer with us. Through celebration and small acts of remembrance, we are able to carry on the memories and find comfort in knowing that their presence lives on.
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Whether it’s a movie that you used to watch together or an activity that used to bring them joy, commemorating those moments not allow allows you to continue healing and lean into acceptance, but it always works to strengthen the connection that you once shared. By various celebrations and rituals, we open up space to find comfort and peace in knowing that their presence lives on.
5 Ways To Commemorate A Loved One Through Your Grief
1. Cook Their Favorite Meal Once A Month
They say “food is the portal to a persons heart,” so what better way to mend your heart than to share the memory of someone close to you through making their favorite meal. Whether you’re cooking the same meal each month or you switch it up, the idea of preparing a meal that was special to your lost loved one creates a special moment filled with memories and savory aromas. Take it a step further and invite someone special who shared that same bond to break bread with.
2. Plant A Garden
Planting is therapeutic and now is the best time for you to disconnect and find your green thumb. Find your loved one’s favorite plant, flower, or vegetable and create a little garden in their memory. Setting aside time to nurture the garden and water it, figuratively and literally will help you feel connected, bringing you a sense of fulfillment as you watch your garden grow.
3. Have A Memorable Movie Night
Set aside a night or weekend to lounge around and watch all the movies your cherished loved one enjoyed. Turn on a film that you recall watching together or try something new as you watch something you remember them raving about. Grab your popcorn, a blanket, and cozy up as you relax, reflect, and celebrate the good times.
4. Create A Bucket List And Follow Through
Remembering your loved one and all the things they accomplished, as well as didn’t accomplish, opens doors for you to follow in their foot steps. Create a list of all the things they wanted to do, but didn’t get to do (or everything they did accomplish) and slowly follow through checking off each milestone you reach. This could be done in a weekend or spread out overtime, allowing you to honor their legacy and a life well spent in a meaningful and fun way.
5. Run A Race In Their Honor
Whether your loved one passed from natural causes or fought the good fight through a health battle, there are several organizations that host races and events in their honor. Participating in these events not only raises awareness for a special cause, but it allows you to celebrate your loved one in a special way. Choose a walk or a run and allow yourself to engage in a way that feels most comfortable to you. As you cross that finish line, give yourself a pat on the back for pushing through and maybe even celebrate yourself at your loved one’s favorite restaurant.
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