I never thought I would become an expert in grief however as I struggle through these difficult times I learn more ways to cope with challenging emotions.
Some ways that have helped me are the free Coronavirus meditations on the One Percent Happier App. These really are very helpful for dealing with stressful times. Practicing regularly twice a day is helpful too. Meditation before sleeping allows you to just be focussed on your breath or sounds and allows you to silence the monkey mind for a little bit. I used to worry I wasn't meditating right because my thoughts would often drift and sometimes I just could not sit still. But with some kindness you come back to the practice and try again and you keep trying.
Meditating for a few minutes is often easier than for a half hour. As your practice deepens then slowly increase the time. Often having an extra short session can benefit you more that a long session where your mind is constantly wandering. The main thing is to be kind to yourself and allow yourself to feel whatever you are feeling. It is okay to cry during your meditation or to laugh or scratch your itchy arm, return to the breath and keep going. It does get easier.
*Susan Piver of the Open Heart project has some amazing books and meditations/courses..I encourage you to check them out, they are great!
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