For many people, the end of a relationship can feel like the end of life, entirely. Everything as they once were has perished, only leaving behind memories.
No matter how you may be feeling right now, this pivotal phase is a grand opportunity to change the course of your life and build unwavering love for yourself.
You are loved and are doing amazing as is. Here are a few self-care tips that will help you come back stronger after a breakup.
Completely Disconnect With Your Ex
Keeping in contact with your ex is like ripping the bandage off of a fresh wound over and over again. It opens the opportunity to reminisce over the past and revisit a dead relationship.
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If you are truly wanting to end things, you need to make a clean break. Get rid of sentimental gifts, and delete old pictures from your phone. Resist the urge to reach out so that you don’t get swept back into the pointless “makeup to break up” cycle.
Everyone operates differently and you need to learn how to get your own closure and cut ties with your ex.
Spend Time Alone
Relationships have a way of making us neglect ourselves, so it is best to take a social hiatus for a little while to connect with your inner self. Too many outside influences can lead you in the wrong direction.
This does not mean that you should completely withdraw from all of your loved ones. Instead, use solitude to unpack your emotions and come to terms with the hurt, free of distractions.
Alone time is essential to self-care. Practice doing mindfulness techniques, things to keep you present and grounded in the here and now. Doing so will keep your pain manageable until you are feeling like yourself again.
Date Yourself
Don’t seek comfort by rushing into a new relationship. The most important bond you will ever create is the one with yourself. Once you are aware of your own likes, dislikes, hobbies, and desires, you will be in a better position to make true connections with others.
The best way to do this is to date yourself. Take yourself out to the new restaurant that everyone has been raving about. Treat yourself to a mani-pedi. Plan a road trip with some friends, or research cruise deals, and take off for a week. Do whatever it takes to get to know the real you.
Take Care Of Your Mind, Body, And Soul
The emotional nature of a breakup can lead to depression. Tending to yourself from the inside out is key to practicing self-care and getting through this tough time. Practice meditation, breathing techniques, journaling, and yoga to heal your mind and combat negative thought patterns. Always rest for at least six hours per night.
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Now is also the best time to adopt a healthy workout regimen. This will help to take the load off and create a more positive mentality. You don’t have to spend hours slaving on the treadmill or strain your muscles while pumping heavy weights.
Choose a physical activity that speaks to you. It can be dancing, yoga, pilates, kickboxing, or anything else to keep your heart rate elevated. Your self-esteem will drastically increase once you start to experience physical results.
Commit To A Goal
Fill in the empty spaces of your life by evolving and bettering yourself. Your goals don’t have to be complex unless you would like them to be. Focus on sculpting your body, becoming more flexible, writing a book, or doing whatever sets your soul on fire.
Not only will this help to keep your mind busy, but it will also feel great to have mastered another area of your life. Committing to your goals can change your life.
Create A Healthy Balance In Your Life
Self-care means to cater to your own needs and find harmony in all areas of your life. Balance out your energy so that you aren’t placing too much focus on one field while neglecting the others. For example, spend time with your friends and family, but make sure that you prioritize your alone time. Exercise daily, but always give yourself a full night’s rest. Dividing your attention to each segment of your life will help you to remain whole.
Seek Support
Never be ashamed to call out for help. We all need a shoulder to lean on sometimes. Reach out to a positive influence in your life, someone who will listen without judgment and uplift you in your time of need. Therapy is also a great self-care tool.
Now is the time to rebuild your life from the ground up. The end of a relationship means the renewal of yourself. It is the golden opportunity to start over and put your needs to the forefront.
Bio: Paisley Hansen is a freelance writer and expert in mental health. Having been through her fair share of breakups, Paisley is quite fond of self-care and having joy in her life. When she isn’t writing she can usually be found reading a good book or hitting the gym. Paisley can be found here.
