Losing a loved one is incredibly difficult, no matter how old you are or how long they have been a part of your life. Memories are the one thing that we can hold onto after they have gone, so preserving these is incredibly important. They provide comfort and connection to them, and memories can provide a sense of healing too. In this blog we are going to look at some of the more creative ways to remember a loved one.
Create A Memory Capsule
A memory capsule is a modern take on a time capsule, where you collect and store personal items, mementoes and written notes that all remind you of your loved one. All you need to do is pick a sturdy box or container (you can go as fancy or as simple as you like), and start adding things that remind you of the deceased. This can be things like handwritten letters, meaningful
photos, or even objects that remind you of specific dates and memories you spent with your loved one. If they had a favourite scent you could always add a sample of that to the box too - sensory things tend to trigger memories and emotions. You could add their favourite CD to listen to when you are thinking of them too.
Ask family and friends to add in special quotes or memories about your loved one. These could be collected at the funeral service so you have lots of personal stories to remind you how special they were.
A memory capsule should be opened on a special occasion that is important to you. This could be a wedding anniversary, an important date that you shared, or even the date of a holiday which you both enjoyed together. Revisiting these memories during a special time can help you feel close to them when they can’t physically be there with you.
Making A Living Memorial
A living memorial is one of the most popular ways to remember a loved one, and involves planting a tree, a small garden, or even a small plant in a location that was special to you both. If your loved one enjoyed being outdoors and in nature, this is one of the best ways to commemorate them.
If you choose to plant a tree, take the time to research the species of tree that would be the most fitting. You could always add a plaque with their name too. If you have space to plant a memorial garden, fill it with bright, bold flowers that remind you of their spirit. Adding a seating area is a great idea as this means you can sit there and be with them during times where you need comforting.
Another idea for a living memorial is to adopt a star or animal in their memory. This symbolic gesture will create a long-lasting memory and also provides financial support to a cause that was close to their heart.
Personalise Some Memorial Jewellery
Memorial jewellery is becoming incredibly popular because it allows you to remember your loved one in a subtle way, wearing them on you at all times. There are a few different types of memorial jewellery:
● Ashes or hair lockets: if your loved one is going to be cremated, you can save some of their ashes or a piece of their hair to place inside a locket, bracelet or ring.
● Fingerprint / heartbeat jewellery: this is where you capture your loved one’s fingerprint and have it etched onto a piece of jewellery.
● Engraved jewellery: you could have a piece of jewellery made with your loved one’s handwriting or a quote they used to say a lot, as a constant reminder of your bond.
Start An Annual Tradition In Their Memory
Traditions are a lovely way to remember your loved one as it keeps their memory alive, and can also give back to other people too. For example, if they loved participating in a particular sport you could arrange an award for the best player each year in their name. Or alternatively, if they had a passion such as hiking or cooking, you could set aside a day each year to take part in that activity and remember your loved one.
A memorial dinner is a lovely way to celebrate the life of your loved one, and a chance to bring together family and friends. You could prepare their favourite meals, share stories and remember all the good times you had together.
If your loved one supported a particular charity or cause, it would be perfect to organise an annual fundraiser in their memory. Not only will you be giving back to others, but you will also be honouring their memory too.
As you can see, there are lots of different ways to remember a loved one, but just like the journey of grief, everyone chooses their own personal way to honour the deceased. The way you choose to remember them is completely personal to you, and you may prefer to spend your special dates completely alone. Be kind to yourself, and think about one of these creative ways to remember your loved one and celebrate the joy they brought into your life.Traditions are a lovely way to remember your loved one as it keeps their memory alive, and can also give back to other people too. For example, if they loved participating in a particular sport you could arrange an award for the best player each year in their name. Or alternatively, if they had a passion such as hiking or cooking, you could set aside a day each year to take part in that activity and remember your loved one.
