Divorce is a very stressful time. It is important to pay attention to your emotions, sleep patterns, and how you’re doing on your job.
Fear or anxiety can last for a while and affect every area of your life. Here are some tips for self-care during the divorce process.
1) Mindfulness and Exercise
Science has shown mindfulness exercises are very helpful in reducing stress and anxiety. Mindfulness exercises can be as simple as going outside and walking barefoot through your grass. There is medical research that shows being in nature (especially “forest therapy”) changes your brain chemistry and neurological patterns. Any exercise helps reduce the level of stress. Getting your exercise outdoors has an even greater benefit to your mind.
2) Get Away
Find a way to distract yourself. Day trips can make a world of difference by just being able to get away, especially from your home environment. If you have children, schedule fun activities and outings with your kids. It will take your mind off things, as well as theirs.
3) Do Something for Yourself Everyday
Put your name in this sentence: “Do something for [My Name] every day.” It could be something as simple as I’m going to sit down for 30 minutes by myself just reading a fun magazine. Repeat it every day and use your name. Scientific research also shows that if we say and use our name, it helps the idea stick in our brain for a positive change.
4) Words of Affirmation
Post notes for yourself on your bathroom mirror or on the wall by the light switch in your bedroom. Positive notes containing affirmations for yourself keep your attitude positive. They can not only make a difference in your attitude, but also your level of stress.
5) Get Help from a Doctor
People may experience a lack of focus in the divorce process, especially while at work. Insomnia, anxiety, and depression can increase these focus issues to an extent that you may be concerned about losing your job. If you find that these tips have helped but are just not enough, then go see a doctor for medical assistance to get through the divorce process. Especially when insomnia or anxiety last for a while and are affecting every area of your life. Some people are naturally anxious and fearful of the unknown, but if it is affecting your job performance and/or your ability to function day to day, it is good to see a doctor and/or a therapist to take care of yourself. There is no shame in getting on some type of medication for the short term to get you through the process and back to good health.
Self-care is extremely important in the divorce process. It is the little things that make a difference. From mindfulness exercises to medication, there are plenty of ways to take care of yourself during the divorce process.
