At Ecoffins, we know that the run-up to Christmas can be an especially tender time for anyone who is grieving. While the season is often portrayed as joyful and bright, it can also highlight empty chairs, missing voices, and traditions forever changed. If you’re finding this time of year particularly difficult, or if you’re supporting someone who is, you are far from alone.
Why Christmas Often Feels Harder
Christmas brings rituals, memories, and an expectation of togetherness. These familiar rhythms can intensify grief, especially when you’re navigating the season without someone you love. Many people notice emotions rising sharply in November and December—what’s sometimes called a “grief spike.” This is a completely natural response to a meaningful loss.
Grief may show up as:
A renewed ache for the person who has died
Difficulty engaging in festive traditions
Emotional exhaustion or withdrawal
Feeling pressure to “put on a brave face”
At Ecoffins, we believe in creating space for authenticity. Grief doesn’t follow a calendar, and it certainly doesn’t pause because it’s Christmas.
Gentle Ways to Support Yourself
1. Honour Your Pace
Take each day as it comes. Some moments may feel manageable, others overwhelming. Both are okay.
2. Adapt Traditions—Or Create New Ones
If old rituals feel painful, gently adapt them. You might:
Light a candle in your loved one’s memory
Place a meaningful natural decoration on the tree
Spend time outdoors, grounding yourself in nature
Donate or volunteer in their honour
Small, mindful acts can help you stay connected while supporting your healing.
3. Allow Rest
Grief is hard work. It’s okay to carve out quiet moments, step back from gatherings, or simplify your plans.
4. Reach Out
Talking with someone who understands can ease the sense of isolation. Friends and family can be a great support, but professional services are available too.
UK Organisations That Can Help
Cruse Bereavement Support
A leading UK charity offering helplines, group sessions, and one-to-one support—especially valuable during the festive season.
Marie Curie Bereavement Service
Offers free, structured support by phone or online, tailored to your needs.
The Good Grief Trust
Provides a directory of local and national grief organisations, helping you find support that feels right.
Local Hospices & Community Groups
Many host remembrance events, light-up ceremonies, and safe spaces for reflection throughout December.
Supporting Someone Else Through Christmas
If someone close to you is grieving, your presence can be incredibly grounding. Consider:
Checking in regularly with a simple “thinking of you”
Making space for them to talk—or not talk—about their loss
Offering practical help
Being flexible and understanding if plans change
Often, it’s the quiet, consistent gestures that mean the most.
A Message from Ecoffins
As a company rooted in sustainability and compassion, Ecoffins understands that caring for the planet and caring for one another go hand in hand. The natural materials we use remind us that life is a cycle—beautiful, fragile, and always interconnected.
This Christmas, please remember that there is no right way to grieve, and no expectation to perform festive joy. Take care of yourself gently, seek support when you need it, and know that your feelings are valid.
If this season is difficult, our thoughts are with you. May you find comfort, connection, and small moments of peace in the weeks ahead.
