Divorce is one of the most stressful things you can go through in your lifetime.
With enough support and good legal advice, you will come through it, but there will be moments, days or weeks when things are incredibly stressful.
Being stressed is not just unpleasant, it can also do short and long term damage to your health. It is important not to get so caught up in your divorce that you damage your health. Here are some ways to stay healthy and avoid the stress getting too much for you to cope with.
Sleep
Sleep is vitally important if you want to keep a clear head and have enough energy to tackle everything that you need to do. However, it can be hard to come by when you have a lot on your mind.
If you find you are suffering from insomnia, do everything that you can to get a good night’s rest. Fit in some exercise during the day, limit the time you spend looking at a screen before you go to bed and give yourself an hour to unwind properly before you try to sleep.
Avoid the booze and try yoga and meditation as well.
Don’t be afraid to go and see your GP if you can’t sleep. They will be able to help and prescribe tablets if they think it is necessary.
Exercise
Divorce is time consuming and at times it can feel like you have no time for yourself, especially if you work and have children as well. However, try to take some time out for some exercise. It will not only keep your body healthy, but is also good for your mind and will help to relax.
If you don’t normally exercise have a good look at what is on offer around you to find something that you enjoy. Whether you choose something gentle like swimming or yoga, or go for something that will bust stress in a different way, like kick boxing, you will feel the benefits.
Eat well
For many people, going through a divorce will involve going from cooking for two to cooking for one, or cooking for the first time in many years. While cooking is a day-to-day activity during normal family life, a divorce will shake this routine and often people find it difficult to get back into it.
Although it can be liberating to eat what you want, when you want after a long time having to think about what someone else wants as well, try to stick to a healthy, balanced diet.
If you are finding that you don’t have enough time to cook, plan well ahead, cooking a batch of food for the week.
Ask for help
It is important that you are aware of your stress levels and ask for help if it becomes too much. You can see your GP or a therapist and ask for more support from friends and family.