Health & Wellness

Sleep is often one of the first things disrupted during a divorce. Anxiety, legal worries, uncertainly or changes in living arrangements can make it harder to sleep. 

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Tips to Improve Sleep:

 

1. Maintain a consistent bedtime & wakeup schedule

2. Avoid screens late at night

3. Create a calm bedtime routine

4. Limit alcohol & caffeine in the evening

5. Keep your bedroom cool, quiet, dark and comfortable

 

Even small improvements in sleep can have a major impact on mental clarity and emotional stability.

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Physical activity is one of the most effective ways to reduce stress during major life changes.

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Exercise can help:

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1. Reduce anxiety and depression

2. Improve sleep quality

3. Boost energy and concentration

4. Increase confidence and self-esteem

5. Build phyiscal strength 

6. Connect with others if a group activity

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Some exercise suggestions:

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1. Walking or hiking

2. Yoga or stretching

3. Strength training

4. Cycling or swimming

5. Group fitness classes

6. Playing a Sport

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Even 20–30 minutes of movement a day can significantly improve mood and resilience. You can also connect with others and meet new people when exercising with others. 

Stress can lead to emotional eating or skipping meals entirely. Maintaining balanced nutrition can help stabilize mood and energy levels.

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Helpful habits include:

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1. Eating regular meals throughout the day

2. Choosing healthy and whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains

3. Staying hydrated - drink lots of water throughout the day

4. Limiting excessive alcohol or processed foods

5. Avoiding using food as a coping mechanism for stress

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Proper nutrition supports both physical and emotional well-being.

Chronic stress can affect the immune system, heart health, mood and overall well-being. Finding healthy outlets for stress is essential.

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In additon to exercise, consider incorporating:

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1. Meditation or mindfulness practices

2. Deep Breathing exercises

3. Journaling

4. Spending time outdoors

5. Massage or relaxation therapy

6. A hobby that you enjoy such as ones relating to crafting, art or music

Divorce often disrupts long-established routines. Creating new habits can help restore stability and a sense of control.

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Helpful routines may include:

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​​1. Morning walks or workouts

2. Scheduled meal times

3. Regular social activities

4. Consistent sleep schedules

5. Weekly self-care practices

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Structure and consistency can make the transition into post-divorce life feel more manageable.

During stressful periods like divorce, it’s easy to rely on habits that provide temporary relief but harm long-term health or impact your ability to function successfully. 

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Be mindful of:

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1. Excessive alcohol consumption

2. Smoking or substance use

3. Extreme dieting or over-exercising

4. Long periods of inactivity

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If these behaviors begin to increase, it may be helpful to seek professional support.

Maintaining regular medical appointments, checkups and recommended health screenings is extremely important for both physical and emotional well-being. The stress of divorce can create new health issues, exacerbate existing health issues or limit time and/or inclination to make and keep medical appointments. 

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A few suggested medical appointments and screenings:

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1. Primary care - annual physical

2. Women's health - annual check up, yearly screenings 

3. Men's health - annual check up, yearly screenings

4. Eye health - vision exams and screenings

5. Skin health - screenings

6. Dental health - checkups and routine care

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Taking care of your appearance during a divorce is not about vanity - its an important part of self-care and creating confidence and emotional well-being. In addition to exercise, nutrition and managing stress, take steps to look your best. When you look great - you feel great. 

 

Ways to Look Your Best: 

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1.  Hair: haircuts, blowouts, color, new styling 

2. Skin care: create or maintain a skincare routine 

3. Make up: wear a little or a lot - whatever makes you feel good. 

4. Clothes: get some new pieces, put together old pieces, dress to feel good

5. Nails: paint them! Even just a clean up and clear polish can make you feel good

6. Jewelry: accessorize to up your look