Death Positivity: What It Is & Why We Should Care

Death is a taboo subject for many, but what if we could flip the script and welcome death as a part of life? This is where the concept of death positivity comes into play—a movement that encourages open conversations around death, dying, and everything in between. It's high time we take a step back, embrace the topic, and give death the celebration it deserves!

What is Death Positivity?

At its core, death positivity is about dismantling the fear and stigma that surrounds death. It promotes the idea that discussing mortality openly can lead to healthier relationships with grief, dying, and ultimately, life itself. Death is not something to be avoided, hidden, or whispered about behind closed doors. Instead, it should spark enlightening discussions and thoughtful planning.

Why Should We Care?

1. Breaking the Silence: When we don’t talk about death, we miss out on the opportunity to learn from each other and share our experiences. Think of death positivity as a dinner party where instead of small talk about the weather, we dive into the juicy topics of our lifetime—what we fear, what we love, and how we want to be remembered.
2. Making Meaningful Plans: Discussing death can be a great motivator for life planning. Maybe you want to write your own obituary, select a unique burial site, or consider environmentally friendly options like natural burials. This is the time to get creative—maybe you’d like your cremated remains put into a piece of jewelry, or even a vinyl record!
3. Grieving Without Guilt: Everyone experiences grief differently, and sharing our stories about loss fosters a sense of community and support. Rituals play a significant role here, whether it’s lighting a candle, expressing thoughts in a journal, or creating a DIY memorial project, these practices allow us to navigate grief authentically and without pressure.
4. Cultural Variability: Death is treated in many ways across different cultures. Engaging with diverse perspectives can inspire new ways to honor our endings while respecting traditional values. Maybe a friend celebrates Día de los Muertos with altars and sugar skulls, while you prefer to plant a tree as a living memory.

Death positivity is not about glorifying death itself; it’s about enriching our life experiences and accepting the inevitable. By discussing, planning, and remembering, we cultivate a relationship with mortality that honors our existence rather than evades it. So, let’s raise our glasses—not just for the living but for the dead as well. Here’s to life, love, and the inevitable end that binds us all!

P.S. If you’re interested in learning more about death positivity, I highly recommend checking out The Order of the Good Death! Their page on the Death Positive Movement has a ton of great information.