You’re getting divorced. It sucks. There’s no way to sugar coat the experience or pretend that things aren’t difficult. However, this is a great time to remember to nurture yourself and to do things to prevent added stress. Here are some great stress busters that can help any divorcee or soon-to-be-divorcee (or anyone!) along the way.
- Deep breathing: This may sound silly, but deep breathing can really help you to relax. So can other techniques, including taking a nightly bath, listening to relaxing music, having a facial or going for a walk.
- Do less things: Give yourself a daily break. Think of one thing to take off your to-do list every day. It might be something as simple as refusing to make your bed or deciding not to do the dishes that day (you can do them tomorrow). People actually get great joy out of following this stress buster suggestion. They feel like they are giving themselves the right to relax just a bit and to get away with something.
- Laugh every day: Yes, you’re going through a very difficult time, but you can find something to laugh about every single day. Watch shows that make you laugh, ask a friend to remind you of some of the funniest moments you have had together, or check in with someone who makes you giggle.
- Make to-do lists: When you’re getting divorced, you have even more things to do than usual and this can feel emotionally overwhelming. Get those to-do items out of your head and on to paper so you can keep your head clear. Cross them off as you finish them to enjoy great satisfaction.
- Give yourself pep talks: You need to be your best friend while you’re going through this difficult time. Talk to yourself throughout the day. “I did a great job understanding one more piece of the divorce puzzle today!” “I’m proud of myself for getting both kids out the door on time today.” “Good job filling the tires with air on my own!”
- Get a physical: If you haven’t been to the doctor for a while, make an appointment and make sure that everything looks good. It’s important to take care of your physical health during this time.
- Get physical: Exercise is a fantastic stress buster. When you’re sweating and concentrating on staying on the treadmill, you don’t have time to think about your divorce or the stressors in your life. Even ten minutes of activity is better than none.
- Eat well: When you are busy and stressed, your healthy eating tends to go out the door. Don’t let it. Plan out your meals for the week and stay on top of your healthy eating. This will help to reduce stress and to make you feel better.
- Join a support group for divorcing spouses: You will hear suggestions here that you might not have considered, and you’ll find the empathy that you’re probably searching for at this time.
- Put a happy picture of yourself on the refrigerator or at your office: You’ve been happy at various times in your life, and you’ll be happy again. It’s so important to remember that you’ve had happier times, and that you can return to them.
