Rituals in Bereavement
Rituals can be an alternative way to express our grief . At times grief can feel overwhelming . A ritual can provide parameters within a person ’ s grief . Individual thoughts and feelings can be more manageable through a meaningful ritual allowing for the expression of thoughts and feelings . Rituals provide a healthy connection to the deceased .
Types of Rituals Purpose Examples Continuity
Transition
To acknowledge a continuing connection between self or family and the deceased
To mark a reclaiming or movement forward by the bereaved person
A toast at thanksgiving
Changing / decorating a room to make better or alternate use of it
Reconciliation To ask for , or grant , forgiveness to finish unfinished business
Writing a letter to the deceased then ceremonially burning it
Affirmation
To say “ thank you ” to the deceased for their influence in your life or something they taught you
A bike in the woods ( thanking Dad for instilling you with a love of nature )
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