Memorial Day is just around the corner, marking the start of summer for many of us. You may have a BBQ in your backyard planned, the pool may already be ready for swimming, and you probably have the perfect spot staked out for a night of fireworks with the family and your friends. There are many great ways to celebrate Memorial Day, an important holiday to remember the men and women who have died serving our country. Here are a few ways to honor our fallen heroes.
National Moment of Remembrance
Participate in the National Moment of Remembrance at 3 PM your local time on Memorial Day. At this time, pause whatever you’re doing for one minute to remember those who served in the military to protect our freedom.
Buy a Red Poppy
This tradition has been around since a World War I poem painted a picture of red poppies growing on a battlefield. Then, in 1924, disabled veterans assembled Buddy Poppies to bring in support for VA hospitals. Now, the VFW accepts donations for poppies on Memorial Day. The money goes toward state and national rehabilitation and service programs for veterans.
Attend a Memorial Day Parade
A fun activity for the whole family is going to a Memorial Day parade. Grab your mini American flags, gather the kids, and cheer for those participating in the parade. Remember to wear your patriotic mask and keep a safe distance from others so everyone can enjoy the fun.
Visit a Military Cemetery
A special way to honor the women and men who sacrificed their lives for our Nation’s freedom is to visit a military cemetery or war memorial. While there, send positive thoughts and thanks to these courageous people. You can also honor the fallen troops by donating to Memorial Day Flowers. This organization places flowers on the graves of soldiers.
Share a Photo
Your social media can be a great way to remember your friends and family who served our country. Post a photo of a veteran or active soldier and share a story of their service.
You can also write letters to the American soldiers and their families. This is a nice activity to get the kids involved in, as well. It’ll help them realize that Memorial Day is not just another day off from school.
Shop at a Veteran-Owned Business
If you’re going to shop on Memorial Day, consider stopping at veteran-owned businesses. There are several businesses, from hardware stores to fine-dining restaurants, owned and operated by military servicemen and women or their families.
Donate
Give back to those who made the ultimate sacrifice by donating to organizations that support military families. Research a trusted organization that helps a cause important to you, whether that’s wounded soldiers, soldiers with PTSD, or families who’ve lost a loved one. Any amount can make a big difference.
Practice Yoga
Practicing yoga on Memorial Day is an excellent way to slow down and remember all the blessings in your life and give thanks to those who have served or are serving the United States military. As you relax into the poses and breathe deeply, send good thoughts to those serving and their families. This Memorial Day Health Yoga Life would like you to celebrate with us by doing yoga. Join one of our online classes and say, “Thank you!” to all the military men and women.