Invest in a Crafty Hobby
Hobbies are healthy distractions from our everyday life. They allow us an activity to keep ourselves busy while still being low stakes enough to not cause us stress. There are a countless number of hobbies that can be easily picked up when you may be needing a distraction. Knitting, sewing, and other needlework are easy to learn, with handy guides available at craft stores. Paint-by-numbers can be time-consuming but also results in beautiful art that can be hung around the house. There are classes available for more hands-on activities such as welding or woodworking. Pottery classes are available to everyone, and kilns aren’t too expensive if you decide you want to fire your own pieces at home. These crafty hobbies are a great way to get creative without getting too stressful.
Write Down Your Thoughts
Writing can be seen as a daunting task, but truthfully it is nothing more than a quiet expression of self. Journaling is often suggested by therapists for people who are experiencing grief or depression. This can be a way to express yourself in a safe and private manner. You don’t need to be a professional writer to put your thoughts down. After all, this is a personal exercise. When you decide to write, don’t saddle yourself with the responsibility of creating a piece of art or the next great American novel. Just write what’s on your mind. You can share your journaling with others if you want, but you’re under no obligation to do so.
Create a Special Memorial
You may be thinking, “create a special memorial? I’ve only ever attended one woodworking class!” Don’t worry, we’re not suggesting that you start a construction project (unless you want to). We simply mean, make something special as a way to remember your loved one. This could be as small as a playlist of their favorite songs, or a box where you keep small things that remind you of them. Perhaps you could make a memory container: write memories on pieces of paper and place them in a box or glass jar. You could donate a bench or a stained glass window, start a charity or scholarship fund in their name, or donate to a cause they believed in. There’s no limit on the things you can do to create a special memorial for your loved one.
Embrace Art and Music
Artists and musicians create their work for people to enjoy in any state of mind. Sometimes, a grieving person can find special significance in a particular song, painting, sculpture, or movie that they might not have felt before. It’s okay to listen to sad songs when you’re sad, or watch a movie that makes you cry. It’s also okay to do the opposite, and enjoy a comedy special or funny movie. Processing grief doesn’t mean you have to be sad all the time. You can often find beauty, purpose, and freedom in the art and music around you. You might even be inspired to sing along, learn the chords, visit more museums, or hit up the movie theater. Embrace the gifts of creativity around you.
We hope these suggestions for how to cope with grief by getting creative are helpful. Please remember to reach out to loved ones and friends if you find yourself struggling. There is no clear path through grief, but know that you are not alone.
We want to help you make the best decisions for you and your family to celebrate the memory of a life lived. If you have any questions about our cemetery, funeral home or cremation services, please contact us.
