Light a candle and pray, chant, talk or stay in silence

My spiritual practices are a mixture of the various religions and traditions that I have been exposed to since I was born and all the way until now.

Every time a loved one has transitioned, on the first night, I have lit a candle and chanted so that the obstacles are removed from their path and their souls can continue on their journey.

I have found this practice soothing and other loved ones have joined me which has helped me feel comforted. It is as if with the chant I was supporting my loved one that is gone, and the people chanting with me were supporting me.

Afterwards I light a candle, usually on the weekends, and sometimes I'll share in my altar a little bit of the meal I prepared. Sometimes I will also burn incense. Sometimes I will say hello and ask my loved ones how they are doing. Sometimes I will ask for their guidance with something in particular.

That is what feels right for me.

You can do whatever feels right for you: put flowers, play some music, say a prayer or keep a moment of silence. You can do it as often as you like and you may ask others to join you in your ritual if that's something you'd like.