Contribution from freelance writer Jackie Edwards
Winter is here, and while most people are trying to stay warm at this time, some individuals who are dealing with a divorce may find that the gloomy weather can have an impact on their mood and well-being. Going through a divorce is tough enough as it can affect your finances, your children, and other relationships. But perhaps the hardest thing about splitting up is coping with the loneliness and depression that you may feel as your relationship ends. It can be even more difficult to deal with these feelings during the winter season as scientific evidence has found that people are more likely to feel down during the cold months. Trying to overcome the winter blues when you’re already coping with your divorce can be a challenge, but it can be done. Here are a few ways to beat the winter blues while going through a divorce.
Be Social
Some people who are going through a divorce have a tendency to distance themselves from their loved ones when they’re overwhelmed or feeling sad. However, hiding out in your room won’t help you cope with winter sadness. To feel better and avoid being isolated, head outside and spend some time with your family and friends. Meet up at a coffee shop or do some window shopping at the mall. If you like walking in the snow, then bundle up and enjoy the cold, crisp air which can help to reduce stress and calm the mind.
Take Care Of Your Body
There’s a connection between food intake and divorce—either people will restrict their calorie intake to look good as a form of revenge, or they overindulge in food for comfort. However, these behaviors can lead to an unhealthy relationship with food, and it can also lead to an unhealthy body and lifestyle. Treat yourself well and eat nourishing foods that can boost your energy and mood. Smart food choices can help ward off anxiety and depression, so make it a point to include plenty of greens, fruits, vegetables, and protein in your diet. Exercising can also help to chase the winter blues away as any form of moderate to intense physical activity can make you feel more active, happy, and optimistic.
Do The Things You Love
After a divorce, it may be difficult to get excited over the things that used to bring you joy. But one way to feel better this winter is to start engaging in these activities again. Doing things that can make you feel happy is a form of self-care, so taking the time to ensure your happiness can aid in the healing process. So go ahead and have a spa day with your friends, go to a karaoke bar and sing your heart out, have a movie marathon, or attend a concert. Whatever it is, make sure that it’s fun and a positive experience for you.
Going through a divorce during the cold, winter months can be tough, but by engaging in activities that feed your happiness and taking care of yourself, you can get through this difficult time and emerge as a stronger and happier individual. Try these tips to beat the winter blues and heal your emotional wounds.
Now working as a writer, Jackie started her career in health and social care, but after becoming a mom refocused and decided to spend more time with her family. When she’s not writing, she volunteers for a number of local mental health charities and also has a menagerie of pets to look after including a cheeky cat called Bertie.