Breakups are hard, there’s no two-ways about it. The emotional toll is enough to send many individuals into the fetal position with one hand wrapped around a spoon and the other around a pint of Häagen-Dazs®.
The problem with reaching for comfort foods in times of crisis is that they set us up to feel even worse. Yes, sugar absolutely gives us an initial rush. We feel energized and happy. Guess what happens when you eat sugar? Your brain produces more dopamine, a feel-good chemical. Before long, you are eating more and more ice cream to keep your dopamine levels up.
When you experience a breakup, it’s important to fight your urge to self-medicate the sadness away through unhealthy foods or alcohol. Here are some things you can do instead- to feel better:
Create a New Space
It’s time for a fresh new start, and there’s no better way to do this than by giving your living space a makeover. Move the furniture around, give your living room a new paint color. Get some new sheets and linens. You want to remove obvious memories from your home and create the kind of space that makes you feel excited for your future.
Reconnect with Loved Ones
Often when we’re in a relationship, all of our time and energy goes to the other person and we see old friends and family less than we’d like. Now is a great time to reconnect with those people who will love and support you through this hard time.
Try Mindfulness Meditation
And speaking of connecting with loved ones, it’s time to connect with yourself. Mindful meditation is a great way to quiet your thoughts and just be with the REAL you. Meditation also helps to alleviate stress. Five to 10 minutes a day is all you need to start feeling calm and balanced, and this is a much better headspace to begin making choices and decisions for your future.
Breakups will never be easy, but they are a part of life. Do your best to stay away from binging on junk food and instead focus on self-care and compassion.
If you find your feelings of sadness are not going away, it may be helpful to talk to someone. Breakups are a loss, for sure; even if in your mind- this was a wise decision, it still hurts! When we don’t know how to navigate our strong emotions, we can become depressed and anxious. Speaking with a therapist can help you work through your pain and sense of loss.
If you or a loved one is experiencing discouragment from a recent breakup and would like to explore therapy, please get in touch with me. I’d be more than happy to discuss how I may be able to help.
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