cremation services in Columbia, MD

What Does Holding Space for a Loved One Mean?

When the time has come, and a loved one has passed, part of the process is scheduling a cremation services in Columbia, MD., and learning how to be present with an individual’s experience as they go through the healing process. The phrase of holding space relates directly to being present with an individual who is suffering, but what does this mean, and what does it look like in the moment?

The process requires that you be present with their experience while allowing the situation to be without judgment or expectation from them. It requires that you are present wholeheartedly to them and that you set your grievances aside while they mourn. It is about allowing the person to be exactly as they are in the moment and not trying to alter it, even if it is uncomfortable to witness, part of allowing is letting them express themselves.

A few factors can help you get through the process and learn to help ease their emotional burdens. Because loss can be very uncomfortable for some, understanding that the process has no time limit for individuals. This means that the individual could be in this state of pain for years or even just days, but the most crucial part is to allow them to be there.

They need to feel their feelings precisely as they are, and you can provide them with that space to let them process whatever is arising and then give them room to let them go. In time as they heal, the feelings will begin to lessen and become more manageable as they are healing. And it is normal to want to fix the person or bring them back to where they were before the loss, but the key is not to change their experience or who they are. They need to go through this process to let the feelings go, so listening and holding compassion for their situation is all you need to do.

Additionally, asking what they need is a way to hold space. They may want someone to sit with them in silence or need help around their home with odd jobs to ease their burden. Talking about memories and the loved one can also help alleviate some of the pain of the loss.

Finding Resolution in the Uncertain

cremation service in Columbia, MDThere is no easy process for loss, and it looks different for everyone. So, the best choice is to be available when they are ready to express themselves, which promotes healing. Their emotions can fluctuate as they grieve, so being prepared for this is helpful. They may also experience loneliness, so checking in on them is significant.

The compassionate team at Snowden Funeral home has over 100 years of experience supporting an individual planning a cremations services or funeral service in Columbia, MD., and wants you to know you are not alone. Let our caring team help you through the process of your loss and give you the time you need to support your loved ones.