Deload shame

hi,

Last week a family member died unexpectedly. I tried to continue with my program but couldn’t so i just did a random deload, dumbbell versions of lifts. I felt like the barbell as too overwhelming. I know in theory that social/psychological factors are making me less able to express strength. My muscles haven’t actually disappeared in a week.
Is there anything I can do to help me get back to my normal routine. I knocked off balance.

thanks for your work, your templates have really helped me become more confident, set boundaries, and improve my health,

Thanks
Michelle

Hi Michelle,
I am very sorry for your loss. This is a tough time, and this is a lot to deal with. I would not feel any shame at all in doing a week or two of DB work. You are correct that your muscles and strength are still there. I am not sure what type of programming you are doing, but if you have something with RPE, you can get back to the barbell and use loads that you can handle mentally and physically. Then work back up from there.

All the best.