The healing process following a painful loss can look different for everyone, but one meaningful way of remembering your loved one can be by honouring their memory.
Whether you find comfort in photos or visiting places you’ve been together, or you want to find a way of sharing how you’re feeling more openly, there are many creative things you could try to honour their memory.
Here are just a few:
Funerals and memorials
Perhaps the most traditional way of remembering a loved one and paying tribute to them is through a funeral or memorial service.
While some people may prefer a more traditional goodbye, there are also opportunities to tailor the service – adding elements in to make it more unique to the person who’s passed away.
Funeral directors and professionals can offer options, so it’s worth finding out what’s available to you.
Create a memory box or scrapbook
Having a place to store keepsakes, photos and other items which remind you of your loved one can be a comfort. You may not always feel ready to look through the memories, but knowing it’s there when you’re ready can bring some closure.
Plant a tree or dedicate a memorial bench
We know that spending time outdoors can have huge mental wellbeing benefits, so why not combine nature with your own tribute?
Planting a tree in a special place, or dedicating a bench or other item to a loved one can mean you have a place to visit, outdoors, where you can think about them and feel closer to them.
Participate in memorial events or fundraisers
Spending time with your loved ones when you’re experiencing grief can be really helpful, so why not bring a group of you together to share memories and talk?
Planning a fundraiser can be a great way to do just that, while raising funds for a cause close to your heart – and that of the person you’ve lost.
Write letters, poems or blogs
Sometimes speaking about how you’re feeling can be difficult, so try putting pen to paper and writing down some of your emotions, memories and thoughts.
Memorialise through arts and crafts
If you prefer to get creative, you could try painting, drawing or making something which reminds you of your loved one. This can be a great way to help younger people in your life process what they’re going through too.