5 Tips for Healing After a Breakup

Breakups can be earth-shattering, leaving us in pieces with no idea how to rebuild. The pain from breakups can feel never-ending. Whether the relationship was several months or several years, the process of letting it go is not easy. Healing takes time, but remember, it will happen! Let’s discuss some tips on how you can heal and move on.

1. Allow Yourself to Grieve

The end of a relationship is a loss, and with it comes a process of grieving. Trying to rush through these feelings can lead to suppression, and will actually delay the healing process further.

Acknowledge Your Feelings: It’s normal to feel a mix of sadness, anger, confusion, or even relief. These emotions are valid and are a normal part of the process.
Cry if You Need to: Bottling up tears can cause emotional tension, which is damaging to healing. Crying is a physical way to release this tension and overcome pain.
Write Down Your Thoughts: Journaling about your feelings can provide clarity and a healthy outlet for your emotions.

Remember, grieving is not a straightforward process. Some days will feel easier than others, but giving yourself permission to mourn the loss will help with emotional recovery.

2. Take Time for Yourself

Post-breakup, it can be tempting to cling to memories of the person who is no longer in your life. It’s important to create space for yourself during this time.

Limit Contact: Going “no contact” or setting boundaries with your ex can help you focus on yourself. Constant communication can reopen old wounds and make it difficult to move on.
Remove Reminders: Consider putting away old photos, gifts, or other items that remind you of this person. You don’t have to get rid of them forever, but remember, out of sight, out of mind.
Unfollow Them on Social Media: Seeing updates on your ex’s life can make it harder to get over them.

Space isn’t just about distance, it’s about focusing on making yourself a priority.

3. Focus on Self-Care

Taking care of your body and mind can significantly improve your ability to cope with heartbreak.

Prioritize Physical Health: Regular exercise, even something like a daily walk, can help boost your mood.
Maintain a Balanced Diet: While comfort foods are much needed after a breakup, make sure to also include meals that fuel your energy.
Develop a Sleep Routine: Heartache can disrupt sleep patterns. Creating a nighttime routine can help you restore energy and make it easier to fall asleep.

Incorporating self-care practices into your daily life can help remind you that your well-being matters and you’re worthy of kindness.

4. Lean on Your Support System

You do not have to get through a breakup alone. Surrounding yourself with supportive friends and family can make the process feel less isolating.

Talk It Out: Share your feelings with trusted people who can provide you with support and empathy.
Join a Support Group: Connecting with others who have experienced similar heartbreak can remind you that you are alone.
Reconnect with Hobbies and Interests: Try something new, or do something that used to bring you joy. Hobbies can support personal well-being.

Having people or activities who bring you comfort during this time can be incredibly healing.

5. Rediscover Yourself

Breakups can create a void in yourself. But they can also create opportunities for self-discovery and growth.

Set Personal Goals: Use this time to focus on dreams or ambitions you have put aside during the relationship.
Explore Your Identity: Reflect on who you are outside of the relationship. Journaling, meditation, or even solo travel can help you reconnect with your authentic self.
Seek Professional Help: A therapist can help you process the breakup, identify patterns of unhealthy behavior, and offer strategies for healing. Couples therapy is a great first step for healing. Reach out to schedule a session!