Isabella Chase
Heartbreak can feel like the end of the world, but psychologists believe there’s a silver lining.
They suggest that, with the right habits, healing isn’t just possible; it’s guaranteed.
I’m about to share 9 habits that are your ticket to mend a broken heart. These aren’t just feel-good platitudes. They’re science-backed strategies that make a real difference.
So, let’s dive in and turn heartbreak into a fresh start.
1) Self-care is key
In the face of heartbreak, self-care often takes a backseat. It’s easy to forget to eat, sleep, or even shower when you’re nursing a broken heart.
But psychologists stress that taking care of your physical health is the first step to emotional recovery.
This doesn’t mean you have to hit the gym or go on a diet. It’s as simple as eating balanced meals, maintaining a regular sleep cycle, and taking time out each day to relax and rejuvenate.
Healing is as much physical as it is emotional. And by prioritizing self-care, you’re paving the way for your heart to mend.
When you’re feeling down, try treating yourself with the same kindness you’d show a friend in distress. It’s amazing what a little self-love can do.
2) Letting it all out
Heartbreak can feel like a storm brewing inside you. And sometimes, the best thing to do is to let that storm rage.
I remember when I went through my first major breakup. I thought the best way to handle it was to put on a brave face and pretend everything was fine. But all that did was bottle up my emotions until I felt like I was about to explode.
That’s when my therapist told me about the healing power of emotional release. She explained that it’s okay to cry, to shout, or even write down my feelings in a journal.
So, I tried it. The first time I allowed myself to really cry, it felt like a dam had broken. But after the tears, there came a sense of relief and release that I hadn’t felt in weeks.
It wasn’t easy, but letting out my emotions rather than bottling them up helped me process my pain and start moving forward. It’s a habit I’ve carried with me ever since, and it’s made all the difference in my healing process.
3) The power of creativity
Did you know that the brain releases dopamine, a natural anti-depressant, when you’re engaged in creative activities?
This is why psychologists often suggest channeling your feelings into something creative. Whether it’s painting a picture, writing a song, or even simply cooking a new recipe, creativity can act as a powerful salve for a broken heart.
It’s not about creating a masterpiece. It’s about expressing your feelings in a tangible way and allowing your mind to focus on something other than your heartbreak.
Engaging in creative activities can provide you with a sense of accomplishment and purpose, and it’s an excellent way to redirect your energy towards something positive and healing.
4) Reconnecting with nature
There’s something incredibly soothing about being in nature. The fresh air, the greenery, the calmness, it all contributes to a sense of peace and tranquility.
Psychologists often recommend spending time outdoors as a way of healing a broken heart. This is because nature has a way of putting our problems into perspective. The world is bigger than our heartache, and being in nature can remind us of that.
Whether it’s going for a walk in the park, hiking up a mountain, or even just sitting in your backyard, reconnecting with nature can offer a much-needed respite from the whirlwind of emotions that come with heartbreak.
5) Embracing change
Heartbreak often leaves us feeling lost and unsure of the future. But this uncertainty can also open the door to change and growth.
View this period as an opportunity to reassess your life and make changes where needed. Maybe it’s time for a new hobby, a different job, or even a change of scenery.
Change can be scary, but it can also be incredibly liberating. It’s about stepping out of your comfort zone and embracing new experiences.
Every ending is also a new beginning. And by embracing change, you’re taking control of your life and steering it in the direction you want to go.
6) Lean on your support system
When you’re heartbroken, it can feel like you’re carrying the weight of the world on your shoulders. But remember, you don’t have to bear this burden alone.
Your friends and family are there for a reason. They are your support system, ready to lend a listening ear or just provide some much-needed company.
In times of heartbreak, it’s okay to lean on those who care about you. Let them in, share your feelings, and allow them to comfort you. It’s not a sign of weakness but a step towards healing.
7) Finding forgiveness
Forgiveness can be a difficult concept when you’re dealing with heartbreak. I struggled with it myself after a particularly painful breakup. I was hurt, angry, and the idea of forgiving seemed impossible.
But as time went on, I realized that forgiveness wasn’t about the other person. It wasn’t about saying what happened was okay. It was about letting go of the hurt and resentment that was holding me back.
Forgiving doesn’t mean forgetting. It means acknowledging the pain, learning from it, and then allowing yourself to move forward.
Once I embraced forgiveness, I found a sense of peace and closure, and it was an important step in my healing process.
8) Practicing mindfulness
Mindfulness, the practice of focusing on the present moment without judgment, has been shown to significantly reduce stress and improve mental well-being.
During heartbreak, it’s easy to get caught up in the past or worry about the future. But mindfulness helps you to stay grounded in the present.
It could be as simple as focusing on your breath, or noticing the sounds, smells, and sensations around you.
Practicing mindfulness doesn’t mean you have to meditate for hours. Even a few minutes a day can make a big difference.
By staying present, you can navigate through your heartbreak with more grace and resilience, and ultimately, foster healing.
9) Remember, it’s okay to seek professional help
Despite our best efforts, sometimes heartbreak can feel too overwhelming to handle on our own. And that’s perfectly okay.
Seeking help from a professional, like a therapist or counselor, is not a sign of weakness. It’s a courageous step towards healing.
These professionals are equipped with the tools and strategies to help you navigate your feelings and start mending your broken heart.
Never forget: it’s okay to ask for help when you need it. You’re not alone in this journey.
The journey to healing
You have within you the strength to rise from the ashes of heartbreak, and these habits can guide you on your path to healing.
It’s not an easy journey, but it’s one that can lead to self-discovery, resilience, and a deeper understanding of your own heart.
