​How to Practice Self-Care During a Divorce

Divorce is stressful and can be mentally, physiologically, and emotionally draining. Practicing self-care during a divorce is just as important and keeping the ship of your daily life afloat. Stress can cause cracks and if those cracks aren’t address, your ship will sink. Taking time to take care of yourself isn’t selfish, it’s necessary during a stressful live event like divorce. Self-care also doesn’t have to be incredibly involved – just having a focus on your own needs can make all the difference. Here are some ways you can practice self-care during one of the most trying times in life.

1. Sleep. This may be easier said than done but getting enough sleep during stressful times in life is key. Keeping up your sleep routine will allow your body to stay strong and heal both physically and emotionally. Make your bedroom a sanctuary to aid in turning off thoughts at the end of the day. Put down the cell phone and focus on truly restful sleep.
2. Reflect. You can allow yourself to feel. Oftentimes when we’re going through stressful or emotionally traumatizing situations, we tend to shut off and push down our feelings so that we can continue to function. Dealing with those traumatic feelings is crucial to healing and letting go. Sit in your sadness, acknowledge it, and let it go. Reflecting on your feelings is an important part of self-care.
3. Socialize. The last thing you might want to do is be in public with the potential of having to face questions about the status of your marriage. However, meeting up with old friends for a little socializing will really help during this difficult time. Confide in those that have known you longest and have always been there for you. Now is their time to shine and help you get back to yourself.
4. Try something new. Now is the time to rediscover yourself as a single person. Trying something new is the perfect way to jumpstart that process. New experiences can rewire the brain and the time during and after a divorce can be an ideal time for that. Do something that you’ve never done – skydive, sign up for a dance class, anything that will get you out of your comfort zone. Who knows who you could meet during your new adventure!
5. Take care of your body. Self-care means taking care of your body just as well as your mind and soul. Be sure to eat well and move. If you had a fitness and food routine before your divorce, keep it up. If you didn’t, now’s the time to start one. Emotional stress can take a toll on the body, but if you’re being proactive about keeping it healthy, you’re ahead of the game.

We know how hard divorce is on everyone involved. If you’re in need of counsel, mediation, or have any questions about divorce proceedings, let Vener Family Law and Mediation help. With years of experience in this specialty, we know how to make the process as smooth as possible.