As hard as it may be to think, “this too shall pass,” a breakup is an awesome time to take advantage of all the wonderful things that are constantly surrounding you. There is no better time than a heartbreak to change things up and do things just for you! Here are some things we at Her Campus think will help you get through the tough transition:
1. Exercise
As Elle Woods so kindly informed us all, “exercise gives you endorphins and endorphins make you happy.” This little bit of wisdom is completely true In addition to endorphins, dopamine is also released during exercise. Dopamine, a neurotransmitter or chemical of the brain, is necessary for feelings of pleasure and happiness! Not only is exercise scientifically proved to improve your mood, but exercise also reduces anxiety and stress—not to mention the boost of energy exercise offers!
2. Go somewhere new
Exploring is a great way to discover awesome new things to smile about. Try going to a new coffee shop, a new mall, or even a new beach or park. Seeing the new sights and finding great little places is an excellent way to make new memories to replace the sad ones
3. Friends
Just like we learned from Toy Story even “as the years go by, friendship will never die.” It is important to lean on your pals during this time for support and guidance. They are a great way to keep your mind off of the ex, and on to people who are trustworthy and loving. They are there to build you up and remind you just how wonderful you are!
4. Food
Although binge eating is not a healthy way to deal with emotions, some comfort food in moderation is a great way to feel better. There is nothing wrong with the traditional macaroni and cheese dinner with ice-cream for dessert! Even then, trying out new foods can be an exciting way to spice up your usual routine! Cooking classes are also a fun way to distract yourself, and discover new recipes with friends.
5. Shopping
Ah, yes. Retail therapy. While this may not be the best for the wallet, it can surely do wonders for the heart. Buying new pieces to add to the wardrobe will really solidify the turning over of a new leaf, because not only are you saying good bye to the old, but you’re welcoming in the new with adorable outfits to make happy memories in. Furthermore, online shopping is just as exciting because after all, there really is nothing like getting mail!
6. Learn a new trade
Dedicate some time to picking up a new skill. Maybe you have always wanted to make that adorable pillow that you saw on Pinterest. Or, perhaps you have been interested in learning a new song on the piano. Either way, by focusing your efforts on a brand new skill, your energies and emotions can go toward learning that skill! The success will be well worth the efforts and the sense of accomplishment you feel will wipe out the sad feelings in a jiffy!
7. Pamper/Spa
Treat your self to a beautiful spa day. Even if you are not able to set aside an entire day for a salon visit, try to set aside time to paint your nails or take a bath. Taking that time to center yourself and focus on you will be very rewarding in the process of getting over a beak up. It can also be very relaxing. Me time goes a long way, especially when getting over a heartbreak.
8. Volunteer
Helping out is a beautiful way to give your time and talent to others. By spending time in service, not only are you contributing to making someone else’s day brighter but you are participating in something bigger than the emotions of a heartbreak. This is a great way to distract your mind and also give back to your community.
9. Listen to some tunes
Music really has an amazing abilty to life us up and give us a boost of energy. Try listening to some uplifting music as a way to build up some happiness. In addition to the music, take some advice from a doctor—Doctor Christina Yang’s “dance it out,” specifically. A mini dance party is an amazing way to get out all the emotions that are holding you down. The combination of music and dance is a brilliant way to “shake it off,” as our friend T-Swift says.
10. Craft/Color
Throw it back to the good old days of coloring and crafting. Coloring and crafting is therapeutic relief from the hustle and bustle of every day life and this breakup. Create and focus on something fun like glitter and crayons! The end result will not only be a stress free you, but a pretty craft too!
11. Animals
Pets never fail to raise our spirits! It’s hard to beat a fluffy animal that is excited to see us! Additionally, a study done by a Japanese scientist revealed that simply seeing a dog will make you happier. This is because of the neurotransmitter, oxytocin, being released which elicits feelings of happiness. If you do not have a pet at home try going to the mall or the pet store, where the animals are always up to play!
12. Watch a comedy
Laugh it out. Put on your favorite comedy, pop up a big bowl of popcorn, and cuddle up in cozy blankets. The giggles from this movie night really do serve a purpose—it’s scientifically proven! The act of smiling (even when you do not feel like it) can make you feel happier, according to Dr. Mary C Lamia, a clinical psychologist and psychoanalyst from Psychology Today.
13. Challenge yourself (face a fear)
This is an important one because the triumph of a fear is an excellent way to make yourself a better and happier you! The feeling of accomplishment from facing a fear, or even just challenging yourself to something you do not normally do will help you to remember just how strong you are.
14. DO NOT look at ex SO’s social media
Deleting or blocking your ex on the any forms of social media is one of the most important but hardest steps in getting over the breakup. This is very important because it is easy to slip into a habit of checking what your ex is up to because you have cared about that person for so long. Start your new chapter off right by focusing on you and your heart, not worrying about the past.
15. Cry Session
As great as the aforementioned remedies are, sometimes you have to just cry it out. Take a moment to feel what you are feeling and validate your emotions. Heartbreaks hurt, but the closing of one chapter means that another one is beginning!