This holiday season, which is normally a time for joy and togetherness, will be particularly challenging for me and many others in Bermuda.

On December 6, I experienced the profound loss of my amazing mother. While I knew she was ill, her passing still came as a shock. The reality of her absence is a heavy weight to bear, and the days since have been filled with a mix of grief and longing.

One of the most heartbreaking aspects of her absence is the silence. The phone calls, the shared laughter, the comforting voice, the chain e-mails of Bible scriptures — all of it is gone. It's a void that I am finding very overwhelming, and I often find myself tearing up reaching for my phone, hoping for a missed call or a text message.

Despite the pain, I've found solace in physical activity. Working out, even for a short period, has been a lifeline. It's a way to channel my grief into something productive and to take care of myself, both physically and mentally.

While it's natural to want to retreat and isolate, I encourage everyone to keep moving. Exercise can be a powerful tool for managing stress, boosting mood and improving overall wellbeing. Even the day of my mother’s memorial I began with a 90-minute workout. It doesn't have to be that long or rigorous, of course; it could just be a gentle walk or a yoga session. Even something light can make a significant difference.

Remember, it's OK to feel sad. Grief is a complex emotion, and it's important to allow yourself to experience it fully. But it's also important to find healthy ways to cope. While I am definitely in the beginning stages of grief, fitness has been a valuable outlet. It's helped me to stay grounded, to focus on the present moment, and to appreciate the life I still have.

As we navigate this holiday season, let's honour the memory of our loved ones by taking care of ourselves, by going to those check-ups, visiting our doctors for any unknown pains bumps or skin issues and including some type of movement daily.

Let's find joy in the simple things, connect with others and embrace the power of movement.