How to Get Through a break-up. Part Two: The Body
Welcome to part two of our three part series on getting through a break-up the holistic way. In part two, we say hello to the body and consider how it can help you while your heart heals.
While there are many possible benefits to movement and exercise, one of the most relevant to a hurting heart may be that it can help your mood. Break-ups hurt and are frequently accompanied by sadness, anger, regret, or even symptoms of anxiety and depression that could start to interfere with your daily life.
Different types of exercise can have a wide variety of benefits, such as:
Fewer negative reactions (like loneliness, anger, and frustration) to stressful events.
A greater sense of life satisfaction, perhaps because of feeling more “revitalized.”
An improved tolerance for distress (like sadness or pain) and uncertainty.
Consider
What type of exercise might you enjoy? What could help you feel strong, capable, and empowered? Here are some ideas that may help you get going, or add to what you’re already doing.
Connect with Nature
Have you heard of ‘green exercise?’ This is exercise that is done outside in nature. Consider walking or running on the beach, hiking in the mountains, or swimming in a body of water. There are countless ways that you could go green with your exercise!
Exercising outside can improve our self-esteem and mood. What type of outdoor exercise might bring you joy?
Connect with Others
Motivation comes and goes, and consistency can be the greatest challenge of all. Yet, you don’t have to go at it alone. There can be enormous power in surrounding yourself with others who are on the same mission as you, and there are many ways this could be done.
Classes where you can feel the pulse of group energy (like spin, yoga, or circuit training).
Combining movement and interpersonal connection (like acro yoga or stand up paddle boarding)
Clubs in your area (Running or walking? Volleyball, soccer, ping pong, or dance groups?)
Exercising with others can enhance prosocial behavior and bonding. What type of group atmosphere may help keep you consistent and accountable?
Connect with Yourself
You might have a few ideas swirling around by now. But where to start? Consider setting a few goals - whether they’re goals to begin, enhance, or modify an exercise or movement regime. Goals can be benefited by being realistic (yet challenging) and concrete (so, make a plan). Your plan could include:
Who (alone or with others?)
What (did you decide to begin, add, or try?)
When (how many times per week? Morning or afternoon?)
Where (outside or indoors? At a gym or at home?)
How (will you overcome predictable obstacles, like child care or low motivation?)
Learn More
If you want to learn more about holistic strategies to help you heal after a break-up, check out Breaking Up Bravely: A Guide to Holistic Healing When Your Heart Hurts. This free ebook is available here.
Therapy can help if need some extra support or have been having experiences like these since your break-up:
Loss of interest in things you once enjoyed
Low or sad mood
Avoidance of friends or family
Low energy or fatigue
Difficulty concentrating
Daily worry or anxiety
With holistic therapy there is an opportunity for personal growth after your break-up. Reach out to schedule a free 15-minute informational phone consultation.
Disclaimer: Please note that visiting this website does not constitute a doctor-client therapeutic relationship. The information and resources included or linked on this website are for informational purposes only and are not intended to assess, diagnose, or treat any medical and/or mental health disease or condition. The information obtained from this site should not be considered a substitute for a thorough medical and/or mental health evaluation by an appropriately credentialed and licensed professional. We do not know the specifics of your situation or have the facts to provide this type of evaluation and recommend that you seek an appropriately credentialed and licensed professional to establish a doctor-client therapeutic relationship. This website also includes links to other websites for informational and reference purposes only. This website does not endorse, warrant or guarantee the products, services or information described or offered at these other websites.
Fitness, Exercise, and Movement Information Disclaimer: We can offer health, fitness, exercise, and nutritional information including but not limited to advice and recommendation, that is provided solely as general education and for informational purposes. Use of the advice and information contained herein is at your sole choice and risk. You should not rely on this information as a substitute for, nor does it replace, professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician or healthcare provider before beginning any movement or exercise program. If you choose to use this information without prior consultation with your physician, you are agreeing to accept full responsibility for your decisions and agreeing to hold harmless Grow True Psychology, Professional Corporation.
References:
Puterman, E., Weiss, J., Beauchamp, M. R., Mogle, J., & Almeida, D. M. (2017). Physical activity and negative affective reactivity in daily life. Health Psychology, 36, 1186-1194. doi: 1037/hea0000532.
Maher, J. P., Doerksen, S. E., Elavsky, S., Hyde, A.L., & Conroy, D.E. (2014). Daily satisfaction with life is regulated by physical activity and sedentary behavior. Journal of Sport and Exercise Psychology. 36, 166-78.
LeBouthillier, D. M., & Asmundson, G. J. G. (2017). The efficacy of aerobic exercise and resistance training as transdiagnostic interventions for anxiety-related disorders and constructs: A randomized controlled trial. Journal of Anxiety Disorders, 52, 43-52.
Barton, J., & Pretty, J. (2010). What is the best dose of nature and green exercise for improving mental health? A multi-study analysis. Environ. Sci. Technol., 44, 3947-3955.
Rennung, M. & Göritz, A. S. (2016). Prosocial Consequences of Interpersonal Synchrony. Zeitschrift für Psychologie, 224, 168–189. doi: 10.1027/2151-2604/a000252
