Divorce has a way of robbing you of your routine, your normalcy, and sometimes your sanity. No matter how amicable your divorce may be, it certainly comes with stress and big life changes. Some studies have found that these stresses can affect both your mental health and your physical health - citing that some divorced singles have higher rates of heart disease, diabetes, and cancer than those who never married or remained married.
The answer to better health is not staying in an unhappy marriage, but rather making certain that your physical and mental health stay priorities during and after your divorce. While it can be difficult to focus on these issues during the end of your relationship, caring for yourself is key for starting your new life and refocusing your goals.
Here are a few tips on how to stay healthy during your divorce.
- Exercise. It may seem like exercise is the answer to every problem in today's world. In truth, it can help almost every aspect of your life, from your mental health to your stress level to your waistline. It can be extremely difficult to motivate yourself to move during your divorce, but once you get going, you will feel an immediate reward.
- Seek counseling. Talking to a professional (or even a close friend) about how you've been feeling can take away stress that can be harmful to your head, your heart, and your health. Holding in negative feelings harm you in more ways than you might think.
- Consider meditation or prayer. During a divorce, it can be more challenging than ever to focus or quiet your mind. Taking just 30 minutes to clear your mind - either through meditation, rest, or prayer, has been proven to relieve stress and improve health. Even if you don't believe you have time to slow down, taking the time to calm your mind can prepare you to take on the rest of your day.
- Be aware of how you are handling your stress. Unfortunately, many people turn to unhealthy outlets for their stress during a divorce, whether it involves substance abuse, overeating, or overspending. Be aware of your actions and how they are linked with your feelings about divorce - and try to find healthy ways to cope.
Are you in the process of divorcing your spouse in Washington State? The Law Offices of Molly B. Kenny can assist your with any legal issues you are facing. Call today to schedule an appointment.
