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Self Care 101 for Parents Going Through a Divorce
Guest blog written by Leslie Campos at Wellparents
Going through a divorce can be emotionally challenging. According to Thrive Global, separation or divorce is one of the most stressful life events a person can face. If you have kids, it can be even more difficult. Mediation services like Open Space Mediation can help expedite the divorce process and de-escalate tensions, allowing you to move on quickly.
With mediation experts handling the logistics of the divorce, you can focus your energy on your day-to-day wellbeing. Read on for tips for self-care during divorce.
Cleanse your personal space
If you are staying in the family home, it likely holds many reminders of your ex. Take the time to cleanse this space. This can offer spiritual relief and gives you the chance to truly make the home your own. For example, if your ex had a home office, you might take this space and convert it into a playroom for the kids or home gym for yourself.
Consider your children’s needs as you declutter and reconfigure the home. For example, you may not want to eliminate all photos of your ex. Keeping some family photos reassures kids that both parents are still present in their lives. Additionally, don’t touch kids’ bedrooms. Keeping their personal space the same gives little ones stability through a period of change.
Set up a reliable social support network
One side effect of divorce that many people don’t anticipate is the social impact. If you and your spouse had a shared friend group, you may find it difficult to maintain these connections. Avoid isolation by nurturing your own social network. You might also consider joining a support group for individuals going through divorce to make new contacts.
Our Family Wizard provides tips for reclaiming your social life after separation, such as trying new things and investing time in reliable friendships. Close friends and family can also offer practical support during this transition period. For example, they can babysit your kids when you want some “me” time, ensuring you can step away for self care when needed.
Find ways to alleviate stress
Do all you can to nurture your wellbeing, inside and outside, throughout your divorce. Regular physical activity is an effective way to reduce anxiety and stress. You can also use workouts to get out there and meet new people—for example, by joining a gym or fitness class. Exercise can also create a structured routine for your new single life.
Your mental health is another consideration. Meditation can be a great way to calm your mind, reduce stress, and help you move on after a divorce. It requires you to focus your energy inwards, reducing the impact of external stressors. If you’ve never meditated before, there are apps that can ease you into the process. Headspace is one popular option.
Focus on personal goals
Divorce can be tough. However, it’s also an opportunity to focus on yourself. Seize the moment to work towards your personal goals and dreams. For example, you can go back to school to get a degree and change your career path. The University of Phoenix offers many degree options, including online criminal justice degrees.
A virtual education is ideal for parents going through divorce. You can easily study alongside an existing job while also being home for your kids. Furthering your education can also help you attain greater financial independence. If your ex was the primary breadwinner in the marriage, this is a valuable step towards self-sufficiency.
Divorce isn’t easy, but with the right support, you will get through it. Follow the above tips to ensure you are taking care of yourself during this challenging time.
For more tips on successfully getting through a divorce, check out the Open Space
