Mend A Broken Heart After Divorce
During the first year of my life post-divorce, I could chart the course of my recovery by the songs I listened to—I wore myself out weeping while singing sad songs (especially Al Green’s “How Can You Mend a Broken Heart”). Later I wore out my voice when I belted out songs late at night about survival and independence. Another marker was the movies I watched. I especially loved watching sad movies in the theater, where I could share my pain with the big screen in Technicolor and surround sound. Those two things saved me from dying of a broken heart for the first two months after my divorce.
During those months, I felt so incredibly alone. But I wasn’t alone; you’re not alone either. There are people out there—good friends, loving family—who are there to support you until you’re back on your feet again. They might not understand what you’re going through, but they sure won’t understand if you don’t tell them. If all you need from them is a shoulder to cry on, let them know that as well. If, however, you’re one of the countless people whose friends were apparently part of the divorce settlement—and you didn’t get them—now’s the time to go out and find some newer, better ones.
Mend A Broken Heart
One thing that truly helps any heartbreak situation is writing. Write and write and write until you feel you’ve filled up reams of paper. Find a place to put all your thoughts - this will reduce your constant thought process and produce a better night’s sleep.
Next, try some healthy distractions. Distance yourself from the negativity, use this space to create room for something positive to come your way. Take long walks, especially on days where the sun is shining on providing you natural nourishment. Take classes. Classes provide focus—all that homework, all that learning, all those questions are good medicine.
About nine months after my divorce, I began to get serious about my health. I joined a gym, not to lose weight but to get fit and strong. I began to cook healthier meals and looked forward to going to the grocery store. I developed really good sleep habits (what they call sleep hygiene now). Each of these things was a way of convincing myself that I was worth the work, the expense, and the effort.
Your broken heart will mend, and if you want to take the most positive route with specific steps to heal, try our sister site here: Heal My Broken Heart.
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