The funeral-planning process can be overwhelming and exhausting. Trying to put it all together while also grieving the loss of a person you loved is not a task to be taken lightly. Fortunately, your funeral home near Woodstock, GA, is there to help you through this difficult time, and they will take many of the burdens from your shoulders when it comes to making arrangements. One of the parts of a traditional funeral that many people feel is necessary is a viewing. While there is nothing wrong with not having a viewing, there are many reasons why people decide to go forward with it.

A viewing typically takes place in the day or hours before the funeral. It is usually held at the funeral home and can last for several hours over the course of the day. The immediate family normally stay throughout the entire time, receiving the condolences of those who pass through. There isn’t a formal service that takes place, but the person who has passed will have their body laid out in an open casket at the head of the room. There, people can walk up and see their loved one for a final time, perhaps saying a prayer, touching their hand, or simply looking upon their face. There is often soft music being played, and perhaps a video or photo slideshow on display so that people can reminisce about the person they are saying goodbye to. It’s often a time for people to talk to each other and share stories about their loved one, sometimes catching up on their own lives as well. Any flowers that have been sent will be on display here as well.

The act of saying a physical goodbye to the body of the person you have lost can be very meaningful. For some people, it allows them to begin to accept and process their loss. It can be an important step in the grieving process, and by having a viewing, you can provide this opportunity for many others, as well. Unfortunately, there are some situations where a viewing is not possible, and other families may simply not wish to have one. As each situation is unique, there is no right or wrong answer as to how you should plan your loved one’s final arrangements. However, if you are trying to decide whether or not to include a viewing in their services, these are some things you may want to take into account.

As you can see, having a viewing can give family and friends a chance to say a final goodbye to the person you have all collectively lost. By seeing them for one last time, you are able to really accept the fact that they are gone. This may help you begin the process of learning to live your life without that person present, as difficult as it may be. Your funeral home near Woodstock, GA, can also help by providing you resources for grief counseling and therapy groups near you. While you are grieving your loss, it is vital that you also take care of your own mental health as well, and this is just one way to do that.