Mourning Rituals to Commemorate Your Loved Ones

Losing a close family member or friend can be one of the most overwhelming times. Once the services are over, it can be difficult to move on with daily life, as you still want to continue honoring the life of your loved one. A mourning ritual, which is some sort of symbolic activity that helps us to express our deepest thoughts and feelings, can be an effective way to grieve. Creating some sort of mourning ritual has been psychologically proven to help ease the pain and burden of grief during the time of loss. It also helps you to feel connected to your loved ones in some way. These rituals are meant to bring people together in a unique and meaningful way. Below are 5 different types of mourning rituals to try.

Cook Their Favorite Meal Together

Food has long been thought to bring people together and can also provide a sense of comfort. Getting together to cook your loved ones’ favorite meal, and enjoy it while telling stories and memories, can be a great way to celebrate their life and feel a sense of togetherness.

Light a Candle at a Designated Time

Lighting a candle is a very simple, yet powerful ritual for remembering a loved one. Whether it be lighting a candle at the same time every day, or gathering with family and friends once a week or month to light the candle on a particular day, it can be very symbolic.

Visit Their Favorite Nature Spot

Nature has always been known to heal. Visiting their favorite spot in the mountains, at the beach, in the woods, or any other nature spot can be a great place to gather. Consider having a picnic with friends and families to tell memories and stores, or just enjoy the company of mother nature while reflecting.

Write a Letter to Your Loved One

Unfortunately, oftentimes, one of the hardest parts about accepting loss is feeling like there were so many things left unsaid. Holding a mourning ritual where you gather to write all of these unsaid words in a letter to your loved one can be deeply moving for all. It can help to feel like a weight has been lifted off your shoulders. You can then choose to take the letters somewhere and release them, burn them, or even bury them with the loved one if it is done before the services,

Carry a Rememberance Item

Choosing an item from your loved one and carrying it with you on a daily basis can provide a sense of comfort. Consider having a ceremony where each family member chooses a piece of jewelery or special item and sharing the memories in which it holds. This is a special way to remember your loved one and take a little piece of them anywhere you go.

Resources & Grief Support at Hamel-Lydon Chapel

At Hamel-Lydon Chapel, we’re committed to providing resources that take care of the families we work with. We provide grievance support for a full year after the service of your loved one. To learn more, get in contact with us today. We’ll be glad to answer and questions you may have and offer support.