When a significant romantic relationship comes to an end, it can be difficult to process the experience. The duration of the relationship does not necessarily have an influence on the intensity of the emotion you are feeling, and in many cases, it can feel like grieving. You are not always grieving the loss of the person, but of the routine you shared and the future you imagined for yourself. It is important to find your own way through the process, but if you are in the early stages after a romantic breakup and struggling to feel like yourself, here are six ways to bounce back.
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1. Don’t suppress your feelings
It is common for people to try to suppress their feelings after a breakup and pretend that they are feeling fine when they are not. This will only prolong the pain and make it more complicated when it does eventually rise to the surface, so allow yourself to feel all the anger and sadness that you have inside until you have processed your emotions.
2. Spend time with friends and family
It can be very helpful to spend time around people who love you and make you feel happy during a breakup, so when you are invited to a party, meal, coffee date, or just to hang out, try to say yes as often as you can. It will help to talk about your feelings, to stay busy, and to remind yourself that you are loved by so many people. If you struggle to talk about your feelings, writing them down in a journal can help you to express yourself.
3. Focus on making the world a better place
At first, a breakup can feel like the whole world has fallen apart and you can lose your sense of self-worth. To combat this, try to spend your free time thinking about others and how you can make the world a better place. You might volunteer your time to a charity, help an elderly neighbor with their shopping, or even make an online donation to a good cause. By switching the focus away from yourself and helping others, you will start to gain a sense of perspective and improve your self-esteem.
4. Reconnect with or find a new hobby
Is there a hobby that you used to enjoy that took a backseat during the relationship? Or perhaps a hobby that you have always liked the idea of? If so, now is the perfect time to indulge yourself.
5. Take care of your body
If the hobby involves spending time in nature and/or being physically active, that’s even better as exercise, fresh air, and sunlight are all beneficial for your physical and mental health. Exercise triggers the release of mood-boosting endorphins, reduces the symptoms of stress and anxiety, and takes your mind away from your breakup. It will also help you to sleep better at night, and the more sleep you can get, the more refreshed and energized you will feel. It will also help you to sleep better at night, and the more sleep you can get, the more refreshed and energized you will feel. So, consider investing in a good pair of training shoes or a yoga mat to kickstart your wellness journey.
6. Date again (if and when you are ready)
While it can be dangerous to rush into dating again too soon, it is important not to let your confidence be damaged by a breakup. Holding yourself back from exploring a promising new relationship because you are scared of getting hurt is natural, but it may mean that you miss the chance to be with someone special.
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