Relationship breakups can be devastating, no matter who initiates them. They can take their toll on individuals, leading to feelings of sadness, regret, and even depression. To properly heal and move on, you’ll need to take Mindful steps. While every breakup is different, they are commonly followed by negative feelings like depression, distress, and loneliness. Some mourn the companionship, support, and dreams they once shared with their former partner. Others feel uncertain; losing their sense of self after a relationship has ended.  When healing after a breakup, stress levels tend to rise affecting not only our emotional well-being but our physical and mental health as well.

Though it may be hard to accept at first, there is a way for healing after a breakup. After a relationship has ended, people find that the experience has made them stronger and wiser. You can use the opportunity to learn from past choices and mistakes, which allows you to grow as a person.

Finding a way to move on should be the main goal; it’s key to finding happiness in the future. According to a study, 57 percent of singles say that thinking about their exes prevents them from finding new love.

To truly move on you’ll need to take Mindful You steps for healing after a breakup.

1. Give yourself a break. To truly heal take the time to grieve and express your feelings (whether it be anger, confusion, frustration or sadness). A breakup can affect every aspect of a person’s life. So give yourself some time. Know and accept that you won’t be at your best for a while.
2. Don’t be alone. Try not to isolate yourself from others; it will only make things worse. Consider talking to family or friends for support. If you need further assistance consider joining a support group or visiting a counselor.
3. Find a balance. Keeping busy, while finding time for rest is important. Consider having a “day in” watching your favorite films. Take up a new hobby or find new interests.
4. Nurture your physical well being. After a relationship ends, focus on physical relaxation. Treat yourself to a day at the spa with massages and facials. Or have your own spa day at home. Maintain a healthy diet. Consider drinking tea to calm you down. Keep physically active. Consider working out your frustration with yoga or kickboxing lessons.
5. Nurture your inner spirit. Write positively in a journal. Studies show that those who wrote about the positive aspects of their breakup experienced more positive emotions like comfort, confidence, empowerment, renewed energy, and optimism. Also, consider listening to calming music or meditating.
6. Look to the future. Don’t dwell on the past forever. Start creating new goals and dreams for yourself. This will give you a hopeful outlook on life and keep you emotionally open to new love in your life.