Honoring Gold Star Mother's and Family's Day Through Yoga

The last Sunday in September is a day of deep significance within the military community: Gold Star Mother’s and Family’s Day. It is a day to honor and recognize the mothers, fathers, spouses, siblings, and children who live with the ultimate sacrifice, the loss of a loved one in military service.

Understanding Gold Star Families

For those outside of the military world, this day may not be familiar. However, for families carrying the title of “Gold Star,” every day is marked by absence, remembrance, and love that transcends time and space. At Lotus River Wellness, we believe that yoga can offer a sacred way to hold that grief, honor those who are gone, and create a sense of connection that never fades.

The Weight of the Gold Star

The Gold Star tradition dates back to World War I when families displayed service flags in their windows: blue stars for each family member serving, and gold stars for those who had fallen. The gold star symbolizes sacrifice, loss, and an enduring bond that can never be broken.

To carry the title of a Gold Star Mother or Family is not an honor one seeks; it is a heavy, lifelong journey. Grief becomes a part of daily life, woven into holidays, milestones, and everyday moments. Yet within that weight, there is also a fierce love, an unshakable connection, and a community that understands the depth of this sacrifice.

Yoga as a Container for Grief

Yoga cannot erase grief, nor should it. But it can serve as a container, an intentional space where the waves of loss can rise and fall without judgment. Through breath, movement, and meditation, yoga teaches us to sit with what is, even when it feels unbearable.

• Breath-work (Pranayama): Deep, mindful breathing helps calm the nervous system when emotions feel overwhelming. Each inhale becomes a reminder of life’s continuation, and each exhale an offering of release.

• Restorative Poses: Shapes like Child’s Pose (Balasana) or Supported Reclined Bound Angle (Supta Baddha Konasana) allow the body to surrender, mirroring the truth that sometimes the greatest strength is found in allowing ourselves to rest.

• Meditation: Guided reflection or silent sitting creates room for memory and presence, holding space for both love and loss.

  
  

Yoga reminds us that grief is not something to “get over” but something to integrate, a sacred thread that will always be part of our lives.

A Practice of Remembrance

On Gold Star Mother’s and Family’s Day, consider dedicating your practice to remembrance. This can be as simple as lighting a candle beside your mat, whispering the name of your loved one, or silently dedicating each breath to those no longer here.

A suggested flow might include:

• Mountain Pose (Tadasana): Standing tall in honor of those who stood for something greater.

• Warrior II (Virabhadrasana II): Embodying their courage and strength.

• Tree Pose (Vrksasana): Rooting down while reaching upward, symbolizing connection between heaven and earth.

• Savasana (Final Rest): Resting in stillness, allowing love to remain, even as life moves forward.

  
  

The Power of Community

No one should carry the weight of grief alone. Gold Star families often find strength in community, others who understand without words. In yoga, we call this sangha, the sacred community of practice and support. Whether it’s practicing side by side in a studio, gathering virtually, or simply knowing others are holding the same intention, community is a powerful healer.

As we reflect on Gold Star Mother’s and Family’s Day, may we remember that grief shared is grief lightened. Our collective remembrance becomes a source of strength, ensuring that no family walks this path in isolation.

Closing Reflection

Gold Star Mother’s and Family’s Day is not about celebration; it is about remembrance, honor, and love. It is a reminder that behind every fallen hero is a family whose life has been forever changed.

Through yoga, we can create space for grief and remembrance, offering stillness where the heart can rest and strength where the body needs to stand tall again. May we honor Gold Star families not only on this day but every day, by remembering, by supporting, and by ensuring they never feel alone.

To all Gold Star Mothers and Families: we see you, we honor you, and we hold you in our hearts. You are not forgotten.

Additional Resources for Healing

If you are seeking more ways to cope with grief, consider exploring additional resources. There are many organizations dedicated to supporting Gold Star families. Connecting with others who share similar experiences can provide comfort and understanding.

• Support Groups: Look for local or online support groups specifically for Gold Star families. Sharing stories can be healing.

• Therapeutic Practices: Explore various therapeutic practices, including art therapy, counseling, and holistic approaches, to find what resonates with you.

• Community Events: Participate in community events that honor fallen heroes. These gatherings can foster a sense of belonging and shared purpose.

  
  

In conclusion, remember that grief is a journey, not a destination. Each step taken in remembrance is a step toward healing. Embrace the love that remains, and know that you are not alone on this path.