Whether you’re just taking a break or you’ve both admitted it’s over for good, separating from your partner is tough.
If you’ve been together for a long time, suddenly having to navigate life without them by your side is scary, confusing, and more than a little depressing. There’s no easy way to get over the end of a relationship, but there are certain things you can do to make the process slightly less painful. Here are some things to do to take care of yourself while your heart heals.
1. Allow yourself to grieve.
It’s okay to feel sad, angry, or even relieved — sometimes all at once. A separation is a significant life change, and it’s natural to grieve the relationship, even if it was the right decision. Give yourself permission to feel the emotions fully, but don’t let them consume you. Cry, vent, or journal — whatever helps you process.
2. Talk to friends or family.
Don’t bottle everything up. Lean on friends or family members who you trust to listen and support you. Whether it’s a long chat over coffee or just a quick message, connecting with people who care about you helps remind you that you’re not alone. Letting people in can lighten the emotional load.
3. Set boundaries with your ex.
Decide what level of communication works for you and stick to it. Whether you need a complete break or just some ground rules, clear boundaries help prevent confusion and give you space to heal. Setting these limits might feel awkward at first, but it’s a crucial step for your peace of mind.
4. Take a break from social media.
Scrolling through your ex’s posts or seeing reminders of your past life can make healing harder. Taking a temporary social media break helps you avoid comparison traps and emotional setbacks. If you can’t unplug entirely, consider muting or unfollowing your ex for a while — it’s about protecting your heart.
5. Reclaim your space.
Your home can feel like a constant reminder of your ex, so make it *yours* again. Rearrange the furniture, add new decor, or do a deep clean. Even small changes can help refresh your space and create a comforting environment. This physical shift can help your mind move forward, too.
6. Focus on your physical health.
Exercise, sleep, and good nutrition can work wonders for your mental state. A brisk walk, a yoga class, or even a dance session in your living room can help release tension and boost your mood. Taking care of your body helps remind you that you deserve to feel good, even during tough times.
7. Explore a new hobby or passion.
Now’s the perfect time to try something you’ve always wanted to do. Whether it’s painting, learning a new language, or trying out a cooking class, exploring new interests can be incredibly fulfilling. It’s a reminder that your life is still full of possibilities, even after a breakup.
8. Avoid rushing into another relationship.
It can be tempting to jump into dating right away to fill the void, but give yourself time to heal first. Rebound relationships can sometimes mask the pain instead of addressing it. Take a pause, rediscover who you are, and build your confidence back up before pursuing a new connection.
9. Consider going to therapy.
If you’re struggling to cope, talking to a therapist or counsellor can help. They provide a safe, non-judgemental space to process your feelings and figure out a path forward. Sometimes, an outside perspective is just what you need to untangle complicated emotions.
10. Make a self-care routine.
Self-care isn’t just about bubble baths — though those are great too! Create a routine that nurtures your mind, body, and spirit. Whether it’s meditation, reading, or pampering yourself, regular self-care helps you feel grounded and cared for. Little rituals of kindness to yourself add up.
11. Reflect on the relationship honestly.
Take time to think about what went right, what went wrong, and what you’ve learned. Reflection helps you grow and avoid repeating patterns in the future. Be gentle with yourself — the goal isn’t to blame anyone, but to understand and move forward with more clarity.
12. Reconnect with your social life.
Reach out to friends you haven’t seen in a while, or say yes to that invitation you’ve been putting off. Reconnecting with people you care about reminds you that there’s life beyond your relationship. Being around positive people can lift your spirits and give you a break from heavy emotions.
13. Set new goals for yourself.
Think about what you want to achieve in the next few months or years, whether personally, professionally, or creatively. Setting goals helps you refocus and create a sense of purpose. They don’t have to be grand — even small goals, like reading more or saving up for a trip, can give you direction.
14. Remind yourself that healing takes time.
There’s no set timeline for getting over a separation, so be patient with yourself. Some days will be better than others, and that’s okay. Trust that, with time, things will get easier. Healing isn’t linear, but every step forward, no matter how small, counts.
