Coping with the changes that occur before, during and post separation and divorce can take a toll on your body. As a result it's not unusual for people to experience a range of physical and mental health issues. Therefore during this period of adjustment it's important to take extra care of yourself to nourish your mind, body & soul.
Since The Separation I Feel Like I Have Been Constantly Unwell, Is This Normal?
The stress of divorce and separation can take a toll on your body and often accentuates any pre-existing health problems you may have. Any combination of unresolved anger, loss, and multiple life changes can severely stress a person's physical system.
It's really important to take extra good care of yourself to try and stay physically well. Make sure you get plenty of rest, eat well, maintain or start a regular exercise program and give yourself plenty of 'me' time.
What is the Mind - Body Connection?
It is increasingly recognised that there is a strong connection between the mind and body and that the body can in fact mirror the mind. One area where this is easy to see is in relation to physical exercise. People often say they feel good and are able to manage stress levels better when they include regular exercise into their routine. This is because the body releases endorphins during exercise, which influence mood and act as your body's natural painkillers. Regular exercise has also shown to improve immunity - making you less likely to get sick.
Many alternative therapies are based on the mind-body connection and treat the emotional and energetic wellbeing of a person in order to heal physical problems and issues.
Since The Separation My Appetite Is Completely Different, Why?
In times of stress it's very common to experience a change in your appetite. For some people they lose their appetite and for others they experience nervous or comfort overeating. As time goes on and you resolve your feelings about the end of your relationship you should see a return to normal.
In the meantime try to eat small, healthy and regular meals. Don't skip meals and avoid food that is high in fat and sugar. Drink plenty of water and remember that this too will pass!
I'm Exhausted Because I'm Not Sleeping Well, What Should I Do?
Many people find it difficult to fall asleep or have a solid nights rest. Often simply improving your daytime habits and creating a better sleep environment can help you get a better night's sleep.
Try some of these proven techniques:
- Incorporate exercise into your daily routine
- Listen to your body clock and go to bed as soon as you start to feel tired
- Stop the afternoon nap; if you must, restrict it to less than 30 minutes and makes sure it's in the early afternoon
- Avoid alcohol, caffeine and nicotine a few hours before bed
- Don't eat a large meal within two hours of bed
- Drink a warm milk drink 30 minutes before bed
- Keep a regular bedtime
- Consider your bedding; are you comfortable and warm?
- Keep your bedroom quiet, dark and at a comfortable temperature
- Use your bed only for sleeping and sex
Since the Separation I Feel Like I Have No Energy, Is This Normal?
Separation often brings major change to a person's routines and responsibilities. If you're the primary caregiver you may also find it challenging as you work out how you 'do it on your own'. This is all completely normal!
There are a number of things you can do to boost your energy and vitality. Start with the 2 most common reasons for low energy: lack of quality sleep and poor nutrition.
Most people don't get enough quality sleep, which unfortunately means you will never have the best energy level possible. Simple things like sleeping in a pitch black room and going to sleep at the same time every night can really help improve your sleep quality.
Making Small changes in your diet can also significantly boost you energy levels. Try eating small, regular, and protein rich meals. Limit your sugar and caffeine intake and supplement your diet with nutritional supplements.
Sometimes low energy and particularly fatigue can be a result of a medical condition. If you think this could be a possibility please see your doctor.
Click Here To Read Two Homes Suggestions For Boosting Your Energy
Since The Divorce I Have No Sexual Drive, When Will I Get My Groove Back?
There's nothing like a difficult divorce to get a person off their sexual game. The idea of sex could well be the very first thing, or the very last thing on your mind.
For some people they feel the need to go through a significant period of healing time before the issue of sexuality can even begin to be addressed. For others they embrace their sexuality and it helps them to heal and gain self-confidence.
Sex is one of the most intimate acts that can be shared between two people, and the end of a relationship can lead to a loss of trust, faith and idealism. There are no rules of thumb when it comes to being ready mentally, physically or spiritually again to another person, it will happen when the time is right for you. Relax, have fun and enjoy being single. Take your time to slowly put yourself out there and explore dating and the opposite sex. You may surprise yourself and find you quickly get your groove back!
Do I Really Have To Exercise?
It is generally accepted by health experts that to be healthy you really do need to exercise! Whether you're an exercise hater or just can't figure out how you're going to add another thing into your day, it's really important for your health and wellbeing to start to add exercise to your routine.
Click Here To Read Our Suggestions On Starting (And Enjoying) Exercise
How Much Exercise Do I Need to Do?
Recommendations differ however most experts agree that we should all be doing moderate exercise for 30 minutes a day at least 3 times a week. Of course more is better, this is just the minimum recommendation for improved health.
Here are some basics for you to consider:
- Aerobic exercise
Thirty minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity (e.g. walking) a minimum of 5 days a week or vigorous exercise (e.g. running) 3 times a week.
- Strength Training
Aim to include at least 2 non-consecutive days of strength training a week.
- Short Bouts Count
You don't have to do all your physical activity in one go. Experts now say 3 - 10 minute bouts spread throughout the day counts!
Click Here To Read Our Tips To Help You Stick To Your Exercise Regime
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