Watercolors and Grief: How Making Something Tangible Helps Me Heal
On my brother Miles' birthday, I found myself reaching for something to occupy my mind and hands. Instead of letting the day overwhelm me, I decided to make watercolor paint from rose petals. It felt meaningful to create something tangible, especially for him. I used the beautiful shades of pink and red to make a birthday card for Miles, something I could hold and cherish, even if it was just for a moment.
As I worked with the petals, I found solace in the process. The act of creating helped ground me, and the colors that emerged were a reminder of the beauty that still exists in the world, even in times of loss. What struck me most was how the colors faded over time, an impermanence that felt comforting in the context of my grief. Grieving often forces us to confront the fleeting nature of life, but there is something profoundly beautiful about that impermanence. It reminded me that even in loss, there is beauty in letting go and embracing the transient moments.
Research supports the therapeutic benefits of creative expression during grief, helping us process emotions and find peace in our sorrow. Crafting, like making cards or painting, can serve as a healing outlet by giving us the space to work through difficult emotions. It allows us to connect with the memory of loved ones in a way that feels both personal and restorative.
In the end, making something by hand not only honors Miles but also helps me process my grief in a tangible, meaningful way.
Source: "Art Therapy and Grief," Psychology Today
Navigating Grief During Holidays: When Flowers Bring Mixed Emotions
It all begins with an idea.
Flowers, with their vibrant colors and sweet scents, are often seen as symbols of beauty and joy. They are commonly used to celebrate special occasions, express love, and offer condolences. However, for those grieving the loss of a loved one, especially during holidays, flowers can evoke complex and often conflicting emotions.
During Easter, as spring bulbs start to bloom, signaling new life and growth, those mourning a loss may find themselves struggling with the juxtaposition of nature's renewal and their own feelings of loss and stagnation. The vibrant colors and fragrances of flowers, while beautiful to many, can serve as painful reminders of the absence of their loved ones.
Valentine's Day, a holiday dedicated to love and romance, can be especially challenging for those grieving a romantic partner. The abundance of flowers and expressions of affection can amplify feelings of loneliness and longing.
New Year's Eve celebrations, when the air is filled with excitement and anticipation for the year ahead, can be bittersweet for those mourning a loss. The idea of ringing in a new year without their loved one can be incredibly challenging, and the sight of flowers, often associated with new beginnings, can serve as a painful reminder of their absence.
Mother's Day, a day dedicated to honoring mothers, can be particularly difficult for those who have lost their mothers or children. The abundance of flowers and tributes to motherhood can amplify feelings of grief and longing.
It's important for those grieving to know that it's okay to feel a mix of emotions during these times. It's okay to find the sight of flowers triggering or to struggle with the festive atmosphere of holidays. Grieving is a deeply personal process, and everyone copes with loss in their own way and at their own pace.
If you're supporting someone who is grieving during the holidays, consider alternative ways to offer comfort and support. You could offer your time, lend a listening ear, or create a meaningful gesture that acknowledges their loss without adding to their emotional burden.
Ultimately, the journey of grief is one of ups and downs, and it's important to honor and respect the individual's feelings and experiences, even when they might seem contradictory or challenging.
As we navigate the holidays, let's remember to be mindful of those who may be grieving and to offer them the compassion and understanding they need during this difficult time.