Ritual and Healing
As we approach the date of November 21st and prepare to witness together the Waukesha Parade Memorial coming to completion at Grede Park, I was encouraged to reflect on rituals and how they help us remember, honor and heal.
Rituals can be defined as an interpretive act through which we express and create meaning in our lives. The elements of ritual form a natural part of human existence and can express what cannot be captured in words. The power of a ritual lies with its symbolism, which can enhance our emotions and mark the importance of events in our lives. Studies have even shown that some rituals can cause our bodies to release endorphins that help us reduce pain and anxiety.
The upcoming Memorial dedication is a way for the Waukesha Community to come together as a group who is united in intention and purpose, which can foster deep healing and connection. However, while these commemorative events or artistic tributes are powerful opportunities, there are also any number of healing rituals and remembrances you can incorporate into your own healing journey.
As we approach the three-year anniversary of Christmas Parade tragedy, it is important to first and foremost prioritize self-care. This can mean getting some exercise, engaging in relaxing activities, spending time in nature and engaging in creative expression. This can also mean practicing mindfulness as a way to stay present in the moment.
In addition, there are many personal rituals you can engage in that provide opportunities to heal the hurt of grief and trauma. Here are some possible options:
- Write a release letter: Pour your heart onto paper to release the pain and emotions associated with your trauma and grief. Along with expressing your feelings and acknowledge the impact the experience had on you, also affirm your readiness to let it go. When finished burn, bury or otherwise destroy the paper while visualize it taking the burden with it.
- Practice radical self-gratitude: Start a daily habit of writing something about yourself, your talents or your gifts that you are grateful for. This practice can help to silence that inner critic that many of us tend to allow to speak to us too loudly and too often!
- Casting Stones: Write out your pain on a rock with magic marker and throw it into a lake or river. Visualize your pain being placed into the rock and being diluted and buried at the bottom of the body of water.
- Reminiscing: Memories provide a tangible link to those we lost and they offer solace, comfort and a sense of connection. Storytelling and sharing memories can be a powerful therapeutic practice in the healing journey.
Reactions to an anniversary like this can be varied, but it is common to need additional support. If you would like assistance getting connected to additional services, please call the United for Waukesha Resiliency Center and speak with a Service Navigator at (262) 522-0243 or fill out a service request on-line.