There's no easy way to put it: divorce is hard. If you're recently divorced, you know just how difficult and sad the process can be. Now that it's all said and done, you're likely feeling down. However, there is a light at the end of the tunnel. It just takes some time, energy, and effort to get there. Here are some self-care tips to take into consideration as you navigate your new life post-divorce.
Create a New Daily Routine
Without a spouse by your side, you may feel unorganized and lost. Even if you do have children or a pet, you may feel alone and in a funk. It's time to create a new daily routine. Consider your work schedule and the tasks that need to be accomplished around your home each day. As many as 70% of people say they don't have the time to clean their property. Don't let yourself think this way. Carve out time so you and your home stay organized and clean. Clutter can lead to stress.
Your new routine may include planning out your meals ahead of time, deep cleaning once per week, and scheduling appointments out a month in advance. Do whatever works for you. Staying on top of your duties will help you move forward. Messiness and disorganization will only lead to chaos and perhaps even sadness. Plus, setting up a new routine for yourself as a new and single individual will help you to move on with life you post-divorce.
Pick Up a New Hobby or Two
Self-care involves taking the time to do something you love. Maybe it's been a long time since you've picked up or practiced a hobby. However, now's the time to change that. What do you love to do? Perhaps you like to read, draw, knit, run, or even rock climb. Perhaps you're interested in joining a yoga or Zumba class in your community, which would be especially helpful because you'd be socializing, exercising, and meeting new people. Consider your interests, and be open to new opportunities and ideas. Pick one activity you can do once a week, and perhaps pick another you can enjoy every night before bed.
Make Changes Around Your Home
Another form of self-care that may be helpful to you, especially if you aren't moving after your divorce, is to make some changes around your home. You could delve into some smaller changes, such as repainting a room or two, redecorating your bedroom, reorganizing your bathrooms, or buying new furniture for a room or two in your home. Perhaps you'd like to purchase a new bed and side tables and repaint your master bedroom so it feels like a brand new room just for you.
You could also take it a step further and make some bigger changes around your home. If you're interested in being healthier or would like to exercise more, you may consider remodeling your kitchen. According to Houzz, one-third of homeowners say they change to a healthier lifestyle after this particular project. You could also renovate your basement to be a home gym so you can control your workouts and have the ability to exercise and use your own equipment whenever you'd like.
Contact Loved Ones
Staying in contact with friends and family is also important after going through a difficult time in your life. Reach out to your parents, siblings, and friends you can count on. They can help and motivate you in different ways. Your sibling may have you visit them for a weekend. You and your parents could share a homecooked meal. One friend could join a yoga or Zumba class with you in your community. Other friends may want to take you out to get your mind off of your divorce. Maintaining regular contact will be important for your well-being.
Take Care of Your Body
Self-care also involves the body, which is something you may have ignored during the divorce process. It's easy to wallow in junk food, skip the gym, and lay around on the couch for weekends on end. While it's okay to take breaks and relax, it's also important to take care of your body. Stress and sadness can take a toll on your body, so take the necessary steps to get back into healthy self-care routines.
Did you know that one in five Americans have one or more untreated cavities? Don't let the potato chips and chocolate accumulate into poor oral hygiene habits. Wash your face, floss and brush your teeth, take baths and showers, and moisturize. Make sure you obtain the proper amount of all of the food groups each day, exercise, and get plenty of sleep. This way, you'll feel energized each day.
Divorce can be debilitating. Take the healing process day by day. It may be a while until you feel like yourself again. With the proper habits and support, though, in time you'll feel better than ever.
