Self-care box

Self-care is perhaps never more important than while grieving. Eating well, staying active and spending time with friends and family all play an important role in a person’s ability to take a healthy approach to grieving. Taking time for yourself, however, is just as critical.

The items in the Remembering A Life Self-care Box were carefully selected to help grieving individuals find relaxation, reflect and remember. How and when they are used is up to the individual – there is no "right" or "wrong" way or time. The important thing is to use them when ready to do so, whether that's today, tomorrow, or weeks – even months – from now.

The Remembering A Life Self-care Box, available in the Remembering A Life Store, was created to help guide grieving individuals on their journey. The journal, essential oil, candle and memory jar are also available for purchase separately. Whether you’re grieving the death of someone close to you or have a friend or family member who is, we hope these items provide comfort during this difficult time.

About the Items in the Self-care Box

Reflect

Remembering A Life Grief Journal – Keeping a journal can help you reflect on the life of your loved one, the relationship you shared and the impact he or she had on you. Journaling also gives you the opportunity to write about your grief, express what you miss most and reflect on special memories in a private, cathartic manner. In this journal, you might choose at times to write directly to your loved one and share your feelings about grief, your fondest memories, or simply some of the things you did during the day. You can use the featured writing prompts as your guide, write about what you're feeling at any given moment, or a combination of both. Plus, the illustrations in this journal will enable you to discover the therapeutic benefits of coloring and creating something beautiful. Whether you write daily or just whenever you feel inspired to do so, the words you put down will help you on your journey. Your writing doesn't have to be perfect; as long as the words come from your heart, you'll find the journaling experience helpful.

Remember

Memory Jar – Life is full of many special times and experiences. As you reflect on your many, varied memories of your loved one, jot some of them down on pieces of paper and place them in this memory jar. Open the jar any time you feel like it – perhaps on the person's birthday, a holiday or other meaningful day, or merely because you want to – and rediscover a few of the wonderful moments that will keep your loved one's memory alive.

Illuminate

Candle – Let the light of your loved one shine while you enjoy the aroma of this scented candle. Light it when you miss your loved one most, or to mark a special day, such as a birthday, holiday or other significant moment. We've partnered with Black Pearl Candles (blackpearlcandles.com), a hand-poured candle producer, to illuminate the memory of your loved one. Black Pearl Candles are crafted using 100% organic soy wax and certified clean fragrance oil, so they are nontoxic and offer an environment of peace and calm.

Relax

Essential Oil Roller – Aromatherapy can heighten feelings of healing, relaxation and mindfulness. Use this essential oil roller – a calming blend of sweet marjoram, orange and lavender – as needed, whether first thing in the morning, throughout the day or before bed. Our partners at The Healing Place Farm handcraft essential-oil-scented products that soothe, rejuvenate and promote wellness. Their mission-focused approach also supports local organizations that improve the lives of families, individuals and animals in need.

Learn more about The Healing Place Farm on the Remembering A life blog - Aromatherapy Takes You to a Healing Place.

Comfort

Dragonfly Keychain and Story – The story of the dragonfly and its rebirth is one of hope and comfort. Use this keychain as a reminder that your loved one is still with you. The Dragonfly Project was founded in 2002 by an 11-year-old girl who wanted to reach out to others who were grieving the loss of a family member or friend. The Dragonfly Project since then has been bringing comfort to more than 100,000 grieving individuals in the United States and around the world.

Meditate

Rose Quartz Stone – Called the "Crystal of Unconditional Love," rose quartz carries a soft feminine energy of compassion and peace; tenderness and healing; nourishment and comfort. Hold the stone between your index finger and thumb and gently rub your thumb across the stone to help ease feelings of anxiety and to promote relaxation. Keep this beautiful stone in your pocket or purse as a reminder of your unconditional love for your loved one.

Hydrate

Water Bottle – Staying hydrated is always important, but particularly while grieving when you might not give yourself the self-care you need. Use the Remembering A Life water bottle at home or on the go to make sure you're drinking enough water throughout the day.

Preserve

Remembering A Life Box – The box itself makes a perfect container to hold cherished items and other mementos that offer special meaning and remind you of your loved one. You might also consider personalizing this box to reflect your loved one's personality and passions.