Beyond Four Walls: Extending Support Through Aftercare (part 5 of 6)
Environmental psychologist Kaplan (1995) suggests that restorative environments—places that encourage reflection and emotional renewal—extend beyond structured spaces into nature and personal rituals. This idea informs our approach at Eternal Tides, where we encourage families to create their own remembrance practices, whether by scattering “cremains” (ashes) in a meaningful location, planting a memorial garden, or crafting personal tributes. These acts transform grief into an ongoing relationship with memory.
How Space Supports Grief Processing (part 4 of 6)
According to color psychology, different hues evoke different emotional responses. Soft greens, blues, and yellows, for example, have been shown to create a calming effect, reduce stress, and promote emotional healing (Elliot & Maier, 2014). While different hues of colors create different feelings from different audiences, often influenced by context and culture, one can often come to agreement with others about shared interpretations of colors
The Role of Space in Remembrance (part 3 of 6)
The role of space in remembrance is not just about location but about intention. As Yi-Fu Tuan (1977) noted, a place becomes meaningful when infused with experience. That is why our Memorial Space is more than a room—it is a sanctuary where pet owners can pause, reflect, and celebrate a lifetime of companionship.
Beyond a Place: How Space Shapes the Grieving Process (Part 1 of 6)
Grief is a deeply personal journey, shaped by emotion, memory, and environment. When we lose a beloved pet, the spaces where we say goodbye, reflect, and heal can profoundly impact our ability to process loss. Inspired by the work of philosopher Michel de Certeau, who distinguished between "place" (a physical location) and "space" (a meaningful environment shaped by movement and interaction), we understand that grief does not simply unfold in a place—it transforms within a space.