The First Christmas Without Them

The First Christmas Without Them

While Christmas is often referred to as “the most wonderful time of the year,” it is also the most difficult time of year for families who have just experienced the loss of a loved one. Especially when there are traditions involved that included them. With everything centred around being together and spending time with family, it will be nearly impossible to not notice the empty chair at Christmas dinner. That being said, the holidays are a time of love and reflection, which leaves plenty of room to bring family together to help heal. Our advice is creating holiday traditions that honour and preserve the memory of your deceased loved one in a special way. Here are some suggestions for how to deal with the grief on the first Christmas they are gone and incorporate their memory into your family holiday traditions. 

Create New Traditions

Continue you’re your old traditions by creating new traditions that make sense for the reshaped family you have become. Look forward to these traditions. Find ways to include the loved one you have lost.

Cut Back on Stressors of the Holidays

The holidays are full of stressful obligations, like social gatherings, gift-giving, cooking, and volunteering. Give yourself permission to cut back on your commitments in order to have space to heal.

Take Care of Yourself

Plan for sadness and embrace it when it comes. You will laugh again and you will be happy again. it will likely be during a holiday when the love and support from your family and friends can’t help but make you smile. 
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