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