A quick guide to how rituals can help you memorialise loved ones

A big misconception about death is that we have to eventually "let go" of the people we've lost. Moving forward doesn't mean leaving your loved one behind. In fact, one of the most comforting quotes we've heard is from author Mitch Albom, who said that 'Death ends a life, not a relationship'. How true that is - just because someone is physically gone, it doesn't mean that connection we have to them ceases to exist. Even though they're not here, their impact sticks around, becoming a big part of who you are.

Human connection is deeply ingrained in us, which is why grief often feels so isolating. However, studies show that acts of nostalgia, a wistful affection for the past, can genuinely be therapeutic in healing grief. Ever heard of the "Continuing Bonds" theory? It's all about forming a new type of relationship with the departed. It's not about letting go but evolving the connection healthily.

There are many ways to keep that closeness to the people who have passed away alive through rituals that honour and connect us to them. These practices aren't just about remembering - they're about celebrating what made the person shine so brightly.

We like to think of rituals as the colourful threads that weave the story of our person every single day and act as little markers that remind us of our bond. It might be wearing their favourite perfume, using their catchphrase, lighting a candle in their memory, or listening to their favourite song.

These rituals and memorials invite others to join, learn, and be inspired by the legacy that this special someone left behind. Because it's something we can do with others, too, like gathering for an annual picnic in their favourite park or sharing stories around a table. They don't have to be expensive things or grand gestures - simple rituals can be transformative in keeping their spirit alive, reminding us of the laughter, the love, and the lessons they left behind.

Also, it's important to say that keeping their memory alive can simply be embracing small joys: Allow yourself to find happiness in a thought of them, a warm cup of their favourite tea, or a heartfelt conversation about them with a friend.

Some other ritual examples include creating a scrapbook filled with their adventures, planting a tree in their name, or even having dinner at their favourite restaurant on special occasions. These acts aren't just gestures - they're a little more like love letters to their memory.

So what rituals can you do to keep their memory alive?

Here are five suggestions:

1. Share something they taught you with others. It might be a life lesson, a story, a recipe or a fact. MyTributes is a great place to start. When you're stuck on a decision, imagine what advice they'd give. It's like chatting with them and getting guidance for life's choices.
2. You can have honest conversations out loud or in your head. Share your thoughts, updates and how you deal - it nurtures that closeness. Or, if you're like us, start a podcast and share your thoughts with them on that!
3.  Put on their jewellery or clothes as a way to feel them close by, a tangible reminder of their presence.
4.  Take up their hobbies or interests. It's a way to remember them and explore new sides of their personality.
5.  Give back or donate to charities they care about. It's a way to keep their spirit going regularly or on particular dates.

When someone's physically gone, that relationship doesn't have to just disappear. Try nurturing the ongoing bond by doing something special in their memory so that they stay with you. Keeping their memory alive is for more than just us. It's like sharing a beautiful secret with the world - a secret that whispers, "This person was here, and their light continues to shine."