Time to

RITUALS Lighting a candle is physical embodiment of grief

REACH OUT Finding someone to talk to can help us to heal ways to help make up for it. Lianna says many funerals she has recently officiated at brought people together via live streaming.

“At the beginning, we light a candle and we ask those attending virtually to do so at the same time, to feel part of it,” she says.

“Technology can be a way to share memories and love when we can’t reach out physically.

“Families are having Zoom remembrance services which they can record and download.

“Make memory books – decorate them and print off photos.

“That’s important because grieving is not just an emotional process but a physical one too, expressing yourself through ritual.”

Also use the time to plan a postlockdown memorial service that will be unique to the person and commemorate their life, taking ideas from family and friends.

Caring for your wellbeing is paramount after a loss, no matter how hard you find it to get out of bed.

Prioritise your needs and nourish your body.

Linda Magistris says: “Self-care is absolutely vital. Cook good food and try things like yoga to calm the mind and help you sleep. A lot of people are angry about Covid and how it has stopped them saying goodbye. Exercise can help. It gets you outside, clears your mind and helps you stay well.”

Try to eat regular meals, get lots of rest and avoid things such as alcohol and drugs to numb pain.

Aim to complete small tasks each day, to give you focus.

Breathing exercises or mindfulness apps can help to find peace within the stress and sadness.

People often get stuck in grief because they have unfinished emotional business with the