With breakups often come an exquisite mix of disappointment,rejection, anger, fear, and grief.
Breakups give you the chance to rebuild yourself and become the best version of who you are.
You get to focus entirely on your own expectations and priorities without anyone elses influence.
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Think of it as cutting down a huge, shady tree thats been blocking your sunlight.
Now you’re able to grow freely and bloom again.
Below, expert advice on how to do just that.
But often, its easier said than done.
Yet more often than not, such behaviors only make the suffering worse.
Acceptance starts with acknowledgement.
Practicing what Buddhists and dialectical behavior therapists callradical acceptancecan help.
This requires a level of surrender, and the cognizance that certain circumstances are simply beyond our control.
Acceptance does not mean that we like or agree with what is happening, says therapistKristin Money.
Acceptance means that we choose to allow ourselves to feel what we need to feel without judgment.
Its hard and it hurts, but remember: Grief is a process that cant be rushed.
To that end, give yourself plenty of time and space to feel whatever youre feeling.
As the saying goes, the only way out is through.
In the aftermath of a breakup, it can be tempting to let your wellness routine slide.
Moving forward from a breakup means creating a new normal, she says.
Youre not just getting over a breakup, youre creating a new way of life.
That takes a lot of strength, courage, and energy.
In addition to prioritizing the wellness basicsnutrition, hydration, sleep, and endorphin-boosting exercisetry to treat yourself well.
Schedule a massage; buy yourself flowers at the farmers market; take hot baths.
Developing positive rituals creates comfort and predictability, advises licensed professional counselorJennifer Melancon.
Plus, helpful habitsand routine can alleviate feelings of uncertainty, powerlessness, and anxiety.
Structure can lead to more freedom.
Spend time with those in your life who are unwavering fans ofyou.
One word to the wise: Do venture to avoidjumping into another relationshipbefore youre ready.
Breakups often carry valuable lessons, says Serafina.
Just be gentle with yourself during that process.
Challenge negative thoughts and self-blame, says therapistSteevy Griffin.
Remember that relationships involve two people, and both parties contribute to the dynamic.
Practice self-compassion and give yourself grace.
On that note, it is also helpful to consider whatdidntwork about the relationship.
Make a list of things that didnt align with you, advises Griffin.
This can help when you begin to romanticize only the good parts of being together.
How long does it take to get over a breakup?
Heres the truth: There isno catch-all answer.
Every situation and relationship is different.
Like any form of grief, the process isnt likely to feel linear.
The important thing is to let yourself experience each phase as it comes.
The opportunities are endless, adds Melancon.
Your relationship was just part of your story.
Now you get to write the rest.
