Activity: Memory Garden
Exploring Grief
Objective: A Memory Garden is a dedicated outdoor space where friends and family can gather to share stories, find connection, and honor the life and legacy of the person or people they are remembering. The beauty and serenity of a Memory Garden can offer a sense of peace and comfort in the midst of grief. Creating a memory garden requires little more than thoughtfulness and intention, making it accessible even for those with limited gardening experience or a modest budget.
Instructions:
- Choose the right location: Consider accessibility, sun & soil, and privacy
- Discuss purpose and theme: Assess hopes, expectations, and level of commitment of each family member
- Select items to include: Decide priority items based on symbolism, significance, and practicality
- Design the layout: Take measurements and sketch out the plan
- Construct and plant: Prep the land, install larger items first, and add personalized features
- Maintain the space: Implement simple schedule for watering, trimming, and weeding and continue adding and personalizing the space as desired.
Supplies:
- Gardening tools: gloves, shovel, rake, shears, hose, mulch, fertilizer
- Consider including any of the following that bring meaning and significance:
- Meaningful plants – favorite flowers/trees, forget-me-nots, lilies, chrysanthemums, roses
- Sculptures, statues, ornaments
- Lanterns, solar lights
- Windchimes, pinwheels, water features
- Birdhouses, bird baths
- Labyrinths, walking path, stepping stones
Thank you, Kelly Petersohn, from Camp Erin Online for developing & sharing this activity!
