Nurturing Yourself: Finding Time for You After Divorce

As we navigate the whirlwind of holiday preparations and family gatherings, it’s essential to prioritise self-care and carve out moments for personal well-being, especially after a divorce. In this blog, we’ll explore practical ways to make time for yourself during the holiday season.
 
Acknowledge Where You Are At:
Take a moment to acknowledge your current emotions and assess where you are in your journey post-divorce. Reflect on your progress and consider your desired destination. How do you want to feel when you reach that point? Understanding your starting point is crucial for navigating the path ahead.
 
Embracing Self-Compassion: Refuelling for Your Journey:
Just like a car needs fuel to move forward, you need to prioritise your well-being.  Healing takes time, so be kind to yourself as you navigate this process.
 
Create Meaningful Rituals:
Establishing personal rituals can provide a sense of comfort and structure during the holidays. This could be as simple as savouring a cup of tea in the morning, taking your vitamins everyday, practicing mindfulness, or journaling your thoughts. Having these rituals can anchor you in the present and provide moments of peace.
 
Engage in Activities You Love:
Rediscover the activities that bring you joy and a sense of fulfilment. Whether it’s reading a book, taking a soothing bath, or going for a walk in nature, make these activities a priority.
 
Reignite Your Passions:
Reconnect with activities and hobbies that bring you joy, or use the holiday season as an opportunity to explore new interests. Consider how you want to feel.  If it’s calm – perhaps you could try yoga?  If it’s adrenaline – maybe it could be learning to surf?  Make a list of possibilities and start to make your way through them.  Engaging in activities you love can be a powerful way to reclaim joy and purpose in your life.
 
Set Boundaries:
It’s important to set clear boundaries, especially when it comes to social engagements. While spending time with loved ones is valuable, it’s equally crucial to recognise when you need space for yourself. Politely communicate your needs and ensure you have moments of solitude to recharge.

Explore Solo Celebrations:
Consider embracing the idea of solo celebrations. Treat yourself to a special meal, decorate your space according to your preferences, or embark on a short getaway. Celebrating alone doesn’t diminish the significance of the season; it allows you to prioritise your happiness and well-being.
 
Reflect and Set Intentions:
Take time to reflect on the past year, acknowledging the challenges and growth. Use this reflection to set intentions for the upcoming year.  How do you want to feel?  What experiences do you want to have?  What do you want to prioritise for yourself in terms of personal development, well-being, and happiness?
 
Remember, amidst the festivities, your relationship with yourself is just as significant as any other, if not more so. By embracing where you are at, identifying what’s important to you, where you want to go and what you need to get there can make this holiday season a time of personal growth and renewal. 
 
By Lisa Hubbard