Stress and divorce go hand-in-hand. Not only do you have to work with your Durham divorce lawyer to handle the legal aspects of dissolving your marriage, but you still have to juggle everyday obligations, such as work, school and kids. The way you handle all that stress directly affects your health and your ability to make good decisions… so what should you do?
4 Easy Ways to Fight Stress During Divorce
You can’t completely avoid stress during your divorce, but you can make things a little easier on yourself by making the right choices.
1. Let yourself rest. Let’s face it: you have a lot on your mind. The only time your brain gets to slow down is while you’re sleeping (and even then, it’s still hard at work sorting things out). While it’s not easy, try to give yourself eight hours of sleep each night so that you can recharge.
This also involves allowing yourself to not be productive. Sometimes it can feel compelling to bury yourself in work to escape the negative emotions and feelings associated with separation. However, too much work can be counterproductive and make you stuck emotionally. Give yourself time to reflect and move through your feelings – and a break from the daily grind.
2. Get moving. Shake off some of that nervous energy your brain is generating with a brisk walk, a jog or a full-fledged workout. As it turns out, physical activity is a natural way of fighting stress. Exercise is good for your body, your brain, and your self-esteem; it also releases endorphins, which help you feel happier for longer, and stimulates the effects of stress without the negatives, training your body to deal with its effects when you encounter it.
Do not shame yourself for days that you simply can’t get up and out the door to the gym, but do try to remember the positive feelings you experience post-exercise. Even just taking a walk outside can clear your mind and offer a new perspective.
3. Watch what you eat and drink. Carbs, alcohol and caffeine are best in moderation. The kind of carbs you get from dining on-the-go often trigger insulin surges, resulting in a “crash” later. Alcohol is a depressant, which means it slows down your system – and if you’re already run-down from the stress, it’s best to steer clear of it. And while caffeine can put a little pep in your step when you’re dragging, too much can make you jittery and dehydrate you.
4. Slow down when you can. It’s noble that you want to get everything done, but some days, it’s just not physically possible. Make sure you’re setting reasonable goals each day and stopping when you’ve reached your limit.
Your attorney might also be able to recommend a local therapist or counselor who can talk you through this difficult time. Sometimes having an impartial shoulder to lean on is a wonderful stress-reliever, and if you think counseling is right for you, ask your lawyer if he or she knows anyone with experience helping people through divorce.
