Guide to organizing a virtual commemorative ceremony: Adapting traditions to contemporary challenges
Funeral ceremonies play an essential role in the grieving process. They allow family and friends to share their memories and express their emotions, but also to come to terms with the loss of their loved one.
Even when certain aspects make gathering together more difficult, such as geographical distance or physical limitations, it’s crucial to mark the passing of a loved one with a meaningful ceremony. Indeed, these moments of gathering contribute to emotional healing and acceptance of the loss.
In this article, we will explore the technological tools offered by Crématorium Montréal to organize memorial ceremonies regardless of distance. We’ll also suggest some creative ideas for holding these virtual celebrations.
The Evolution of Funeral Rituals: Between Tradition and Modernity
Historically, funeral ceremonies have often been highly codified, with specific rituals linked to each individual’s culture or religion. Most of the time, these traditions were designed to allow loved ones to gather together, celebrate the life of the deceased and share memories.
However, changing customs and lifestyles have prompted many families to rethink their funeral practices. Today, more and more people are opting for cremation. This reflects not only a cultural evolution, but also a desire to adapt rituals to contemporary needs.
Nevertheless, even in a modern context where celebrations can take a variety of forms, and regardless of how the body is disposed of, the celebration of life remains a fundamental stage in the farewell process.
Organizing a virtual commemorative ceremony
Technology is playing an ever-increasing role in the organization of modern funeral ceremonies. It makes it possible to overcome physical distance and bring loved ones together, regardless of their location.
By integrating digital tools into their celebrations of life, such as videoconferencing platforms and live streaming services, families can create inclusive and memorable ceremonies. Without replacing traditional rituals, technology can instead enrich them and adapt them to contemporary realities.
AeternaWeb: an innovative solution for remote ceremonies
Crématorium Montréal sets itself apart by offering technological solutions adapted to everyone, including AeternaWeb. This tool enables distant relatives to attend a ceremony live, wherever they may be in the world. Whether for a cremation or a funeral ceremony, AeternaWeb facilitates the connection between families, allowing everyone to pay tribute to their loved one.
Thanks to AeternaWeb, participants can connect in real time and experience the event as if they were physically present, creating an atmosphere of inclusivity and sharing. This technology also enables families to record the ceremony, offering the possibility of revisiting these precious moments in the future.
Contact our team to find out more about how the AeternaWeb tool works and how it can be used to support your celebration of life.
Virtual funeral ceremony ideas
Organizing virtual ceremonies gives families the opportunity to share a unique experience of remembrance and allows everyone to personalize the rituals according to the preferences and personality of the deceased.
Digital tools open the door to new ways of honoring the memory of our loved ones, while prioritizing exchange and shared memories. Crématorium Montréal encourages families to take advantage of these technologies to create ceremonies that are as touching as they are meaningful.
Videoconference celebrations
Organizing a live virtual ceremony via a videoconferencing platform like Zoom brings family and friends together, even when distance keeps them apart.
This option reinforces the mutual support which is essential to the grieving process. Participants can also light candles online or share photos in real time, creating a space for sharing and remembering.
Tribute videos
Creating and sharing tribute videos is a beautiful way of honoring the memory of a loved one. By integrating photos, testimonials and music into the montage, family and friends can creatively celebrate the life of their loved one.
These videos can be shown at the ceremony and even shared with a wider audience afterwards, allowing everyone to recall the highlights of the deceased’s life.
Online books of condolence
Setting up a virtual book of condolence allows each person to leave a message, which can be consulted at any time. This provides a space for the expression of emotions and memories, while facilitating the sharing of comforting thoughts, even from a distance. The book can also include photos and anecdotes, adding a personal dimension to the tribute.
Themed celebrations
To reflect the personality of the deceased, families can also choose to organize themed celebrations online. For example, if the person loved music, the virtual ceremony can include live musical performances or personalized playlists. In this way, the tribute can be made even more memorable.
Crématorium Montréal funeral services
Crématorium Montréal offers affordable funeral services tailored to the needs of every family. With our expertise in funeral pre-arrangements and cremation, we can help families plan a memorial ceremony, whether traditional or virtual, with peace of mind. Services offered by Crématorium Montréal
Our empathetic and professional approach helps families navigate through one of the most difficult periods of their lives. We are committed to providing the support you need to honor the memory of your loved ones, considering your needs and financial capabilities, without ever compromising the quality of our service.
To find out more about our services and how we can help you honor the memory of your loved ones, please contact us. We’re here to help you pay tribute to your loved ones with respect and dignity.
READ MORECommemoration Options After Cremation
At Crématorium Montréal, we understand the importance of commemorating a loved one in a way that is both meaningful and personal. Whether it’s through memorial jewelry, farewell ceremony reliquaries or ritual gatherings, any way is a good way to celebrate and preserve the memory of those who have left us.
In this article, we present the various commemorative product options offered by Crématorium Montréal as well as suggestions for celebrations to honour the memory of a loved one.
The importance of commemorative gestures
Commemorating the passing of a loved one is an essential step in the grieving process. Remembering a loved one through rituals or commemorative objects can provide significant emotional benefits to those who are grieving.
Commemorative gestures not only maintain the connection with the deceased, but also create a space for recollection and emotional support for the living.
Commemoration enables families to come together, share memories and celebrate the life and their love of the deceased. This collective act of remembrance strengthens the bonds between loved ones and provides a great source of comfort to the bereaved.
Commemorative jewellery: a keepsake to wear close to your heart
For some people, leaving the ashes of a departed loved one at the cemetery or columbarium is not an option. Instead, they feel the need to keep their loved one close to them at all times. For these people, memorial jewellery is the ideal choice.
At Crématorium Montréal, we offer a range of surgical stainless steel reliquary pendants. This commemorative jewellery lets you keep your loved one’s ashes with you, thereby transforming their memory into a tangible legacy that you can wear every day.
Available in dozens of symbols, these pendants can be chosen according to what best reflects your loved one’s unique personality. For example, a heart-shaped pendant can symbolize eternal love, while a tree of life represents continuity and renewal.
The advantage of reliquary jewellery is that since only a small portion of the ashes are inserted, it offers many loved ones the opportunity to keep a memento of their loved one close to their heart.
Discover all our reliquary options.
Reliquaries and other ash preservation options
We offer a variety of receptacles for preserving the ashes, adapted to the needs and preferences of each family. Our reliquaries, for example, are available in a number of styles and materials, including candle holders and pebbles in a variety of colours and shapes.
In addition to traditional urns, we offer biodegradable urns, designed to grow a tree with the ashes. This type of urn creates a living memorial with meaningful symbolism.
We also offer keepsakes such as crystals, canvases, flower vases and lanterns with the ashes embedded in the glass. These items are available in a wide range of colours, allowing you to personalize them in the image of the deceased.
Farewell ceremonies: coming together to better recoup
Whether you opt for burial or cremation, the ritual aspect of the funeral process plays an important role in the grieving process. These moments of coming together allow you not only to say a final good-bye, but also to strengthen family ties and find comfort in the presence of loved ones.
Whatever the scale of the celebration of life, what’s important is that it reflects the personality, life and values of the person being honoured. For example, organizing a small ceremony with readings, prayers or songs that were meaningful to the deceased can strengthen family ties and offer comfort.
As Lucie Marsolais, Executive Director of Crématorium Montréal, explains:
“Cremation for Crématorium Montréal is a different way of celebrating life. It’s less solemn, but also not as heavy. We’ll share memories, talk about the life of our departed loved one, reminisce about the good times we’ve had together, and even laugh and toast his or her health!”
Crématorium Montréal allows you to organize a farewell ceremony in our funeral home. Families can attend the cremation and gather together for a final farewell. We also offer an on-site reception room, where loved ones can get together and share memories over a meal provided by the caterer of their choice.
Annual commemorations: keeping their memory alive
It’s also possible to organize an annual commemoration, on the anniversary of a loved one’s birth or death. Planning an annual visit to the place where the ashes are kept, whether at home, in a columbarium, or in a cemetery, can become a meaningful tradition. This time can be dedicated to reflection, sharing memories and celebrating the life of the deceased.
If the ashes were scattered in a special place, such as a garden or forest, why not organize an outdoor day of remembrance? This can be a beautiful way to remember the deceased, while enjoying nature. You could also plant a tree or flowers in honour of your loved one each year in the place where the ashes were scattered.
Did your loved one like to entertain? You could organize an annual dinner where you get together as a family to prepare his or her favourite dishes. This provides an opportunity for loved ones to come together and share memories over a good meal.
Crématorium Montréal: your partner in commemoration
Choosing Crématorium Montréal for your cremation and funeral service needs means opting for a human and personalized approach, adapted to each family and each story.
To learn more about our commemorative products or to plan a cremation, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to support you through these difficult times and to help you pay tribute to your loved ones.
READ MOREHow to Choose a Cemetery or Burial Site
Choosing a burial site in Greater Montreal following a cremation is a deeply personal and significant decision involving a number of important considerations. Whether it’s a traditional cemetery, a modern columbarium or a private scattering site, each option has its own advantages and aspects to consider.
In this article, we will provide the details of the burial options available to you when choosing Crématorium Montréal’s cremation services for yourself or a loved one.
Questions to consider when choosing a burial site
When planning their funeral pre-arrangements or following the death of a loved one, many people opt for cremation as a means of disposing of the body. Once the ashes of a deceased person have been sealed in an urn, it is always possible to access the final resting place at a burial site.
Before choosing a burial site for your own urn or that of a loved one, it’s a must to consider several key factors that will guide that decision. This is not a decision to be taken lightly. As Lucie Marsolais, Executive Director of Crématorium Montréal, explains:
“When choosing a burial site for a loved one or for themselves, clients are often looking for a landmark, like a place close to their family, for example. Choosing a burial site is nebulous, nevertheless; it’s not like buying land for a house. You buy it for life”.
In order to make an informed decision, we encourage you to ask yourself the following questions:
What is your budget?
The first aspect to consider is the burial budget. Crématorium Montréal offers a range of options with various pricing levels, enabling families to find a solution that is in keeping with their financial means, while guaranteeing quality services.
Does the location have to be nearby?
For some people, the burial site, whether a columbarium or a cemetery, needs to be close to their home or that of their loved ones. Crématorium Montréal offers locations in several cemeteries in the Greater Montreal area, thereby ensuring convenient nearby access for families and loved ones.
Does the burial site have to be accessible?
Another important point is the accessibility of the burial site, so that loved ones can find their way around with flexibility. Crématorium Montréal offers environments that make it easier for loved ones to pay their respects, despite the passage of time.
What are the wishes of the deceased?
If the deceased expressed certain wishes before his or her death, whether in a will, a Record of Wishes, prior arrangements or simply verbally or in writing, it is of the utmost importance to respect them. Crématorium Montréal offers complete personalization of any burial site, including choice of urn, style of monument and engraved inscriptions.
Burying the urn at the cemetery: for a traditional burial
In the same way as for a body, a cinerary urn can be buried. Crématorium Montréal offers a variety of options for plots in private cemeteries in the Greater Montreal area, in order to better meet the specific needs of the families it serves.
Individual plot
Crématorium Montréal offers individual plots in underground vaults specially reserved for cinerary urns. These spaces offer a private and secure resting place, thereby ensuring peace of mind for bereaved families wishing to honour the memory of a loved one in a traditional way.
Family plot
Family plots are a popular option, enabling several family members to be grouped together at the same burial site. Crématorium Montréal offers plots for up to 6 people, with a customizable granite plaque to commemorate the life of the deceased in a lasting way.
Personalized monument
Did you know that Crématorium Montréal offers personalized monuments? These represent the unique values of each individual. With the ability to engrave inscriptions in 13 different languages, Crématorium Montréal recognizes and respects the cultural and linguistic diversity of Greater Montreal and thereby ensures authentic representation of the families it serves.
Find out when is the best time to have your monument made.
Ecological cinerary urns
Ecological urns are an environmentally friendly alternative for people looking to reduce their ecological footprint after death. Crématorium Montréal offers a selection of biodegradable urns, ideal for burial in a cemetery or in a private natural space.
Do you have more questions? Here’s everything you need to know about cemeteries.
Preserving the urn in a columbarium: an accessible and meaningful option
In terms of burial space for a cinerary urn, columbariums represent a space that is both solemn and intimate. At Crématorium Montréal’s columbarium, families can choose from a range of niches to suit their needs and budgets.
Like cemetery plots, columbarium niches are available in individual or family sizes. Concession prices usually vary according to length of stay, layout, maintenance, size and location.
At Crématorium Montréal’s columbarium, your loved one’s ashes will be carefully preserved, protected from the elements and the passage of time.
Still have questions? Here’s everything you need to know about columbariums.
Scattering the ashes or keeping them close to home
In addition to “traditional” burial sites, such as the cemetery or columbarium, it is also possible to keep ashes at home, divide them among family members or scatter them outdoors, according to the wishes of loved ones or the deceased. Each of these options has its advantages… and its points to consider.
Scattering the ashes
Scattering the ashes is a fairly common ritual in Quebec and elsewhere. It often comes about as a result of the wishes expressed by the deceased. If you want to scatter the ashes of a deceased loved one, it is important to note that it is against the law to do so where they could constitute a nuisance to others or in a way that violates the dignity of the deceased.
Keeping the ashes
For a number of people, keeping the ashes of a deceased loved one seems the most obvious option. Keeping the cinerary urn at home provides a period of transition after losing a loved one and thus slightly eases the grief of such a loss.
It is always possible to bury the cinerary urn or place it in a columbarium months or even years later, at the family’s convenience.
Funeral pre-arrangements: planning for a serene future
Crématorium Montréal’s online pre-arrangement form allows individuals to specify their preferences and make informed decisions without having to travel. This proactive approach gives families peace of mind, while ensuring that the deceased’s wishes are precisely and carefully respected.
The funeral pre-arrangement process at Crématorium Montréal is designed to be simple and accessible. With its intuitive form, families can specify urn preferences, type of burial, memorial service details and more, all from the comfort of their own home.
Choosing a burial site with Crématorium Montréal
Choosing a burial site in the Greater Montreal area is an important decision that deserves careful consideration. Crématorium Montréal offers a wide range of funeral and burial services to suit the needs and traditions of families from all walks of life.
Crématorium Montréal is committed to guiding you through the process with respectful, personalized solutions. Contact our team for assistance based on your particular situation.
READ MOREThe Role of Ashes in Preserving Genealogical Memory
In the vast panorama of our lives, family history is a precious web of stories, memories and traditions that we pass down from generation to generation. As funeral rituals change over time, cremation is emerging as a more and more widespread option in many communities.
Cremation represents a unique way of preserving family history through time and giving the memory of our loved ones an imperishable form. Discover how preserving ashes can help preserve your family’s history, from one generation to the next.
Cremation: a dignified and intimate farewell
Cremation is an increasingly popular method of disposing of a deceased’s body in many cultures around the world, offering an alternative to traditional burial.
Cremation involves reducing the body of a deceased person to ashes in a crematorium designed specifically for this purpose. When the professionals at Crématorium Montréal cremate a body, they always do so with the utmost respect for the deceased and his or her loved ones.
Contrary to what one might believe, cremation can be just as meaningful as burial. In fact, at Crématorium Montréal, families have the option of accompanying their loved one’s body to cremation, for a final, gentle good-bye.
Ashes and memorial ceremonies
Cremation also offers families the opportunity to create unique commemorative rituals, celebrating the life and legacy of their deceased loved ones.
There are many ways of marking the passing of a loved one, such as ceremonies to scatter the ashes in meaningful places. Whatever their form, these gatherings represent an opportunity to share stories and strengthen family ties.
Commemorative pieces of jewellery, made from the ashes of a deceased person, are also an excellent way to keep the memory of a loved one alive and to keep his or her spirit close to you over time. Rather than a single urn, these pieces of jewellery allow all family members to keep a memento of their loved one.
Ashes in the grieving process
Ashes can play an important role not only in preserving family history, but also in coming to terms with the loss of a loved one.
Keeping the ashes of a deceased loved one at home can help us get through the ordeal of mourning. In this way, we can give ourselves time to catch our breath before disposing of our loved one’s ashes, whether by scattering them in a symbolic place or placing them in a columbarium niche.
Ashes are memory keepers
Cremated ashes are much more than mere remains. They embody a tangible connection with our ancestors, which accompanies us in our daily lives.
But beyond this physical presence, ashes also play a powerful symbolic role in preserving family history. They are the keepers of our history, carrying with them the memories, values and teachings of our ancestors.
When ashes are shared with future generations, they can serve as a receptacle for our family heritage, encouraging dialogue and the transmission of wisdom accumulated over the centuries.
Cremation and modern genealogical memory
In the context of modern genealogical memory, cremation offers new possibilities for documenting and preserving family history. The ashes themselves can be preserved with other documents and heirlooms or even become artifacts of great symbolic value.
Family members may also choose to include instructions in their wills on how they wish their ashes to be treated, thereby including their wishes in the family narrative for future generations.
For example, last wills can indicate where a person would like their ashes scattered or at which columbarium they would like to find their final resting place.
The limits of genetic preservation
It’s important to note that despite the symbolic and emotional preservation that ashes represent, they don’t preserve traces of the deceased’s DNA. The intense heat of the cremation process completely destroys biological tissue, including DNA. So while ashes may represent a link with our ancestors, they don’t provide a means of retrieving genetic information.
This makes it all the more important to document and preserve family stories and histories in concrete ways, in addition to preserving the ashes, in order to ensure the continuity of genealogical memory.
Crématorium Montréal at your family’s service
With cremated remains, families forge indelible ties with those who came before them, making sure that their story will continue to resonate through the ages.
At Crématorium Montréal, our team of professionals can help you plan your pre-arrangements or organize the cremation of a deceased person.
Contact our team for assistance adapted to your reality.
READ MOREWriting an Obituary: a Guide to Effectively Informing the Community and Loved Ones
When a loved one dies, one of the first steps is to inform the community and loved ones of his or her death. Writing an obituary can be a difficult task in such times of grief. Nevertheless, an obituary is also a way of paying tribute to the deceased and sharing that person’s memory with those who knew and loved them.
Here are a few tips for writing a respectful and meaningful obituary that will also effectively inform those around you following the death of a loved one.
Start with the essential information
In the first few lines of the obituary, it’s essential to include the following information about the deceased:
- Full name
- Age at time of death
- Date of death
These details are essential to clearly identify the person whose death you are announcing. If the person’s last name changed as a result of marriage, you can include a note to that effect. Be sure to carefully check the spelling of names and dates in order to avoid any confusion.
Include details about the deceased’s life
After stating the basic information, it’s appropriate to share details about the deceased’s life. This section can include his or her achievements, interests, hobbies, activities or any other facts that shaped his or her life journey.
For example, if the deceased was an avid volunteer in his or her community, you could mention the causes that were close to his or her heart. If he or she had a successful career, you could mention professional achievements.
Share details of the funeral or celebration of life
If you wish, you can also include information about the funeral or celebration of life in the obituary. Mention the location, date and time of the event as well as any specific instructions, such as requests for charitable donations or dress code guidelines.
Express the family’s wishes
It’s important to respect the family’s wishes regarding the disclosure of additional information. If the family prefers not to receive flowers or would like donations to be made to a specific cause, be sure to clearly state this in the obituary notice.
You can also include information on how the family wishes to be contacted by those who want to express their condolences or offer their support.
Be mindful of readers’ sensitivities
When writing an obituary, bear in mind that readers may be in a period of grief themselves, so choose your words carefully. Adopt a respectful, empathetic tone that reflects your love for the deceased.
For example, avoid overly technical or formal terms that may seem impersonal. Instead, use warm expressions that capture the essence of the person you are honouring.
Add meaningful anecdotes
Memories and anecdotes can add a personal touch to your obituary. Share memorable moments or traits of character unique to the deceased in order to honour his or her memory in an authentic way.
For example, you could tell a funny story about a family trip or a life lesson that the deceased taught you. These memories allow readers to recall the departed loved one with tenderness and affection.
Have someone look over your obituary
Before you publish the obituary, have a trusted family member or friend look it over to make sure it’s error-free and appropriately conveys the information you want to share.
Thorough re-reading can help you detect any inaccuracies or omissions and ensure that the obituary accurately reflects the memory of the deceased.
In short
Remember that every obituary is unique and reflects the life and legacy of the deceased. By choosing your words carefully and sharing meaningful memories, you will create a heartfelt tribute to the person you’ve lost.
The Crématorium Montréal team can assist you in every step of the process following the death of a loved one, including the drafting of an obituary that effectively informs the community and loved ones, while honouring the memory of your loved one.
Here is a sample obituary that you can use as a guide:
In or at [place of death], on [date of death], [name of deceased] [name at birth, if applicable] passed away, at the age of [age of deceased]. [He/She] is survived by [his/her spouse or husband/wife] [first name, if applicable], children [first names, if applicable], grandchildren [first names, if applicable], parents [full names, if applicable], brothers and sisters [full names, if applicable] and a number of nephews, nieces, relatives and friends [if applicable].
[Name of deceased] was known for [qualities or personality traits]. [His/her] way of [anecdote] is a memory we will always cherish.
The family will hold a [farewell ceremony/celebration of life] on [date], at [time], at [location and complete address].
The [cremation/burial ceremony] will take place on [date], at [time], at [location and complete address].
In lieu of flowers, we encourage you to make a donation to [name of organization] in memory of [name of deceased].
READ MOREHow to organize a cremation ceremony reflecting the spirit of a loved one
One might think that opting for cremation as a means of disposing of the body means eliminating the possibility of paying tribute to a loved one. On the contrary: a cremation ceremony represents an invaluable opportunity to celebrate life and the moments shared with the beloved deceased, while giving family and friends a chance to find comfort in their own grieving process.
Although cremation is often associated with simpler rituals, it actually offers a multitude of possibilities for honouring the memory of a loved one in a meaningful way. Here are a few tips for organizing a cremation ceremony that reflects the spirit of a departed loved one…
Personalize the cremation ceremony
Every individual is unique; so too are life’s celebrations. Personalizing the cremation ceremony to reflect your loved one’s personality, interests and values helps create an authentic, heartwarming tribute for you, your family and friends.
Here are a few ways to add deeper meaning to a funeral ceremony and infuse it with the essence of your departed loved one.
Choose a meaningful place
Opt for a place that evokes special memories with the deceased, such as a park, a place of worship or even the garden of the family home. This will add a personal touch to the ceremony.
Incorporate symbolic elements
Incorporate symbolic elements such as photos, personal objects or quotes that reflect your loved one’s life and passions. This will make the ceremony more intimate and memorable for everyone who attends.
Include music and poetry
Select songs or poems that the deceased person loved, or that reflect his or her personality and values. Art can add an emotional dimension to the ceremony and soothe the hearts of all those in mourning.
Celebrate the life of the departed
Rather than focusing on the sadness of loss, a cremation ceremony can be an opportunity to celebrate the life and memory of your loved one. Here are a few ways to add deeper meaning to a funeral ceremony and infuse it with the essence of the person you love.
Share memories
You can encourage participants to share anecdotes and stories that illustrate the personality of the departed or accomplishments in his or her life that you admired. By informing your friends and family in advance of these wishes of yours, you can help them adequately prepare.
Create a place for contemplation
You could also create a physical space where the mourners can support one another and find comfort in their shared love for the departed. The aim of a celebration of life is to ease the grief by sharing memories and precious moments.
Create a memorial book
Why not set up an area where guests can write messages, thoughts or memories in a memory book? This will enable the family to re-read these words in the future and reconnect with the memory of their loved one.
Create a space in honour of your loved one
Certain symbolic gestures can bring comfort and a sense of connection with the departed. Balloon or lantern releases have long been popular, but these are known to have a negative impact on the environment. Here are a few suggestions for gestures that are both powerful and eco-responsible…
Plant a tree
Organize a tree-planting ceremony in honour of the deceased. Each guest can help plant one or more trees in a special location, thereby creating a lasting legacy in tribute to the loved one.
Create a memorial garden
Create a memorial garden where loved ones can plant flowers, plants or shrubs in memory of the deceased. This garden will become a place of peace and reflection for years to come.
Plant seeds in a natural area
Invite your loved ones to scatter seeds of native flowers in a carefully chosen spot. You can also suggest that they write a letter to the deceased on seeded paper and then plant the message to see it bloom.
In summary
In conclusion, organizing a cremation ceremony in the spirit of a loved one provides an opportunity to pay meaningful tribute to his or her life and legacy. Let us remember that even in loss, there is beauty, and that sharing a connection with other mourners can help us through this ordeal.
Crématorium Montréal‘s team is here to help you organize a cremation ceremony that honours the memory of your loved one, so that every detail of the celebration reflects the love and respect you have for the person who enriched your life.
READ MOREAuras: Spirituality in All its Colours
Auras play a key role in many cultures. The fascinating concept of the aura provides a unique perspective of the nature of human energy and consciousness.
In this article, we will explore the origins of auras in various cultures and the interpretations that can be attributed to their various colours.
What is an aura?
Auras are considered subtle energy fields that surround living beings and reflect their emotional, mental and spiritual state. While some people claim to be able to see auras, others say they feel them or interpret them intuitively.
The notion of auras is rooted in many spiritual and philosophical traditions around the world. They are often associated with Hinduism and Buddhism, but the concept of auras can also be found in other spiritual philosophies as well.
The origins of the concept of auras
In Hindu philosophy, auras are often associated with the chakras, those energy centres located along the spine. According to this branch of spirituality, auras are visual or sensitive manifestations of the vital energy flowing through the chakras. In fact, for centuries, yogis have been practising techniques aimed at balancing and harmonizing these energies to achieve a state of well-being and heightened consciousness.
In Buddhism, auras are also considered manifestations of spiritual energy. Some schools of Buddhist beliefs interpret them as reflections of an individual’s state of meditation and spiritual awakening. Buddhist teachings encourage the cultivation of qualities such as compassion, wisdom and concentration to purify and illuminate the aura.
Otherwise, auras are often interpreted in the context of parapsychology and metaphysics. Although their existence is not scientifically proven, many people report experiences of aura perception through practices such as meditation, visualization or clairvoyance.
The significance of auras
The significance of auras varies according to individual beliefs and interpretations. For some, they are a reflection of a person’s emotional and spiritual health, while for others, they can reveal information about personality, innate talents or even past lives.
Whatever their interpretation, auras are often associated with a quest for spiritual connection and a desire for deep understanding of oneself and others. As a result, auras can provide some people with clues to answers at some point in their life journey, when they feel the need.
The various colours of auras
Auras are often described as having various colours, each with its own symbolic meaning. Although interpretations vary, certain colours are commonly associated with specific traits.
It is important to note that the meanings attributed to the colours can vary according to various traditions and individual experiences. Nevertheless, here are some of the most commonly evoked aura colours and their interpretations:
- Red: Associated with energy, vitality and passion. People with a red aura are said to be dynamic and enterprising.
- Orange: Associated with creativity, joy and optimism. People with an orange aura are said to be free-spirited and innovative.
- Yellow: Associated with mental clarity, intellect and positivity. People with a yellow aura are said to be intelligent and communicative.
- Green: Associated with love, harmony and healing. People with a green aura are said to be empathetic and compassionate.
- Blue: Associated with inner peace, wisdom and spirituality. People with a blue aura are said to be calm and intuitive.
- Violet: Associated with spirituality, transcendence and connection with the divine. People with a violet aura are said to have a deep sense of spirituality and higher consciousness.
Finding peace in spirituality, in your own way
Although auras can be perceived as a mysterious branch of spirituality, for some they provide a source of peace of mind and serenity. Whether you believe in their existence or not, exploring the concept of auras can help you find deeper meaning in your own inner journey.
Whatever your approach, keeping an open and curious mind can enrich your spiritual journey and help you better understand yourself and the world around you.
READ MORESuggested Reading to Help You Through the Grieving Process
Grieving is an ordeal that’s never easy to get through. Every bereavement is different, from one person to another, and even our own grief following the death of a loved one or another.
It’s perfectly normal to feel overwhelmed after losing someone dear to us. Nevertheless, there are resources, such as books, to guide us on our journey.
Here are 6 books designed to help you through the grieving process.
Le Deuil, une odyssée : vivre après la mort d’un proche
Axelle Huber
Le Deuil, une odyssée : vivre après la mort d’un proche is a book full of imagery and poetry that describes how, over time, we can begin to live again after a bereavement, no matter how brutal it may be.
Axelle Huber is a professional and family coach with expertise in bereavement support. In fact, the author herself lost her husband before their 4 children reached the age of 10.
In this book, she shares her thoughts, along with information, tools, anecdotes and testimonials drawn from her professional experience.
Quand la mort éclaire la vie
Matthieu Ricard, Christophe André, Christophe Fauré & Steven Laureys
Quand la mort éclaire la vie is edited by Ilios Kotsou and Caroline Lesire. In its pages, we find the reflections of a psychiatrist, a Buddhist monk, a palliative care worker, a philosopher and a neuroscientist. They share their knowledge and wisdom to lift the veil on grief, the universal experience shared by all humanity.
A luminous book that opens horizons and helps us learn to live better.
Comment revivre après le deuil d’un enfant
Laurence Guillot-Noël
In her book Comment revivre après le deuil d’un enfant, Laurence Guillot-Noël tackles one of the greatest sufferings a person can go through: the loss of a child. Having experienced this loss herself, she shares a message of resilience and hope with her readers.
In this book, the author attempts to answer some of the questions associated with death and bereavement, and offers tools for recovering from this painful ordeal through 7 stages of reconstruction.
The book is accompanied by a CD featuring relaxation texts read by the author, and a booklet explaining death to children age 4 to 12.
Le deuil du conjoint : de l’ombre à la lumière
Anne Liu
Le deuil du conjoint : de l’ombre à la lumière is a touching book about death and grief, but also about love and hope.
It begins with a look at the nature of grief under the microscope of professionals. This is followed by touching testimonials from widows and widowers whose lives were turned upside down when they lost their life partner.
This enlightening book also includes poems, literary texts and prayers to help us along the road of the grieving process.
Sortir du deuil : Surmonter son chagrin et réapprendre à vivre
Evelyne Bissone Jeufroy & Anne Ancelin Schützenberger
Lyne Bissone Jeufroy and Anne Ancelin Schützenberger are both psychologists specializing in psychogenealogy.
Their book, Sortir du deuil : Surmonter son chagrin et réapprendre à vivre, addresses the fact that every loss or bereavement experienced represents destabilizing stress that requires us to adapt and regain our equilibrium.
According to the authors, it’s essential to recharge our batteries and regain our strength in order to emerge from grief. To achieve this, they propose a path along which we take care to enjoy ourselves and surround ourselves with loving people.
This book is a guide to getting through grief and regaining serenity.
Vivre le deuil au jour le jour
Christophe Fauré
In his book Vivre le deuil au jour le jour, Christophe Fauré sets out to break down the taboos surrounding death and bereavement. The author explains the day-to-day process of mourning, which will differ according to the identity of the deceased and each person’s history.
He also answers the many questions that the bereaved may have. This psychological guide offers support and comfort to those who find it difficult to move forward in the face of grief.
Also read: Comment parler de la mort avec un enfant?
READ MORECremation: How to Discuss Your Choice With Your Loved Ones
You’ve made your choice: After your final farewell, you’d like your ashes to be placed in an urn. Now it’s time to broach the subject with your loved ones.
How do you explain to your loved ones the reasons that led you to choose cremation as a means of disposing of your body? That’s the subject of this article…
Cremation or burial: the choice is yours
First of all, congratulations on your decision to make your own funeral arrangements. By doing so, you are relieving your family of an additional burden at the time of your death. But more importantly, it ensures that your wishes will be understood and respected.
When you plan your prearrangements with your funeral services advisor, one of the topics you’ll discuss together will be how to dispose of your body. As with all other decisions you make when planning your funeral prearrangements, it’s a good idea to discuss them not only with the executor of your will, but also with your loved ones.
Commemoration after cremation
Although this is your own personal decision, opening the discussion with those who will mourn you after you’re gone gives you the opportunity to better understand their needs in terms of commemoration.
If you wish, you can therefore adapt your arrangements so that your loved ones can honour your memory in a way that brings them peace and comfort. For example, would you like to be on view at the funeral ceremony, which takes place before the cremation?
It’s also important to decide what will happen to your ashes after cremation:
- Do you want your ashes to be buried in a cemetery or scattered in nature?
- Would you prefer your urn to be displayed in a columbarium or kept at a loved one’s home?
Like the cemetery, the columbarium provides a peaceful place of remembrance for your loved ones. If one of your loved ones prefers to keep the ashes at home, this is another possibility. Whichever option you choose, it’s essential that you and your family are well informed about them.
Cremation: a question of values
For some, the choice of cremation as a means of disposing of the body is based on their values.
For example, many people are looking for an environmentally-friendly option to dispose of their body. For others, the idea of returning to the earth to perpetuate the cycle of life gives a certain meaning to death.
Cremation may be in line with some people’s beliefs, but it can also upset others. Here’s how cremation is perceived by various religions:
- The Muslim religion prohibits cremation.
- Cremation is also prohibited within Judaism, although more “liberal” Jews do opt for it.
- The Catholic Church has accepted cremation since 1963, but still favours burial.
- The Orthodox religion tolerates cremation, but doesn’t encourage it.
- Protestantism, Buddhism and Hinduism accept cremation without any problem.
- Lastly, in Sikhism and Jainism, cremation of the deceased is considered a must.
When your faith differs from that of your parents or other loved ones, it can be more difficult to discuss your choice of how to dispose of your body, especially if it goes against their beliefs.
Remember: if cremation is important to you, the decision is yours, and it must be respected by your loved ones.
Why choose Crématorium Montréal?
At Crématorium Montréal, we offer accessible funeral services so that everyone can be laid to rest with dignity.
We offer an economical cremation package. You can also plan your funeral prearrangements online.
Whatever your funeral service needs, our team is here to support you and your loved ones.
READ MOREA Guide to the Holiday Season After the Loss of a Loved One
When you have lost someone you love, the arrival of the holiday season can make you feel a little apprehensive. The large gatherings, the memories that resurface, the traditions that change… Even though they bring joy, the weight of grief often becomes heavier during the holidays.
In this article, we share some tips on how to ease this emotionally-charged period.
Give yourself the freedom to say yes (or no)
Grief is as difficult physically as it is psychologically. That’s why it’s essential to listen to your needs and respect your limits.
Not in the mood to have everyone at your home this year? Don’t. Exhausted seeing your holiday schedule fill up? Turn down invitations. You don’t have to say yes to everything or everyone.
If there are aspects of the celebration that you feel would be good for you, you don’t have to do without them entirely. You may well choose to attend a party, but to leave early. Similarly, you may decide to host your loved ones at home, but to delegate tasks to lighten your responsibilities.
By expressing your needs and setting clear limits, you can make sure that your approach is understood and respected by your loved ones.
Create your own ritual of commemoration
Moments like the holidays serve as anchors in our lives. That’s why the absence of a loved one is particularly painful. Commemoration can help you fill the void, but also to develop new points of reference for the years to come.
Alone or with your loved ones, find the best way to honour the memory of your loved one. You will be able to repeat this moment every year in his or her memory.
Here are a few examples of memorial rituals:
- Take a moment, alone or with others, to recall a happy memory you shared with the deceased.
- Pay your respects at the cemetery, columbarium or other meaningful place before the festivities.
- Install a photo of your loved one in a place that suits you, such as near the table or the Christmas tree.
- Light a candle and offer holiday greetings to your loved one, in thought.
It’s up to you to determine the best way to keep the memory of your loved one alive through a ritual that reflects his or her image.
Perpetuate traditions in your loved one’s memory
For some, traditions directly associated with the deceased are a source of sadness, and it’s best to erase them from the holiday routine. For others, continuing these traditions is rather a way of honouring the loved one. If it makes you feel good to continue your loved one’s contributions to your family celebrations, don’t deprive yourself, above all!
For example, you could:
- Cook the recipe your loved one used to make every year. Even if you’re not as good at it as your loved one was, it’s no big deal!
- Play a game your loved one particularly liked. When the giggles come, it feels good!
- Sing his or her favourite Christmas songs as a family. A sing-along brings comfort to the heart.
Surround yourself with peace and kindness
Grieving people sometimes feel guilty for enjoying themselves. Don’t deprive yourself in any way! You have the right to laugh and, even if only for a few moments, to forget your grief. It’s certainly what your loved one would have wanted for your holiday season.
If you don’t want to be alone, seek out the company of kind-hearted people who make you feel good. If, on the other hand, you crave solitude, embrace it without restraint. Nature can also be a place to recharge your batteries. If you have the strength, taking a walk among the snow-covered trees can provide you with a sense of well-being.
By establishing rituals that are meaningful to you and by creating new traditions, you will make each holiday season a little less difficult. Remember: all these gestures are not intended to forget the deceased, but rather to keep his or her memory alive, year after year.
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