This time of year—the thinning of the Veil—is an optimal time to remember and connect with departed family members. One beautiful way to do this is by making a special place in your home for an ancestor altar. This sacred space helps you connect with your roots and keep the memories of your loved ones alive. Here’s how you can make a heartfelt ancestor altar:

**1.** Choose a Place: Select a special spot in your home where you can set up your ancestor altar. It could be a table, a shelf, or any flat surface that you feel a strong connection to.

**2.** Gather Meaningful Items: Collect items that hold significance for your ancestors. This could include photographs, heirlooms, favorite foods, or personal belongings. These items serve as a bridge between the physical world and the spiritual realm.

**3.** Invite the Elements: Place mementos that represent the four elements – earth, water, fire, and air – on your altar. Earth can be represented by food and fruits, water by a glass of water, fire by a candle, and air by the papel picado or incense smoke. These elements are believed to nourish the souls on their journey.

**4.** Light the Candles and/or Incense: Candles are symbolic of the spirit’s journey. Light a candle for each departed loved one you wish to honor. The soft glow represents the guiding light for the spirits to find their way back home.

**5.** Offer Favorite Foods: Prepare and offer your ancestors’ favorite foods and drinks. It is believed that the spirits consume the essence of the food, and the aroma welcomes them back. This gesture shows that you remember and cherish their preferences.

**6.** Personalize with Love: Above all, infuse your altar with love and personal intentions. Speak to your ancestors as you set up the altar, recalling cherished memories and expressing gratitude for the impact they have had on your life.

Building an ancestor altar is a deeply personal and spiritual experience. It allows you to celebrate the lives of your departed loved ones and to acknowledge the cycle of life and death with reverence and love. As you create your altar, remember that it’s not just a physical space but a sacred connection between you and the Other side – as well as a testament to the enduring power of love and memory.

Courtney Moore is a licensed acupuncturist and intuitive healer in San Francisco, California. She specializes in the mind-body connection and spiritual growth. She loves sharing her passion for natural approaches to women’s health through her online articles and classes. Schedule a remote video session or visit her clinic in the Marina district of San Francisco by clicking the booking link.