Written by: Sasa Evans, Executive Contributor
Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise.
Heartbreak is that universal ache that steals our breath, clouds our vision, and leaves us feeling like a deflated balloon. We've all been there, navigating the emotional pain of a shattered relationship. But amidst the sorrow, there's hope. Healing the heart is possible, and with the right strategies, you can emerge stronger and more resilient from this storm.
Strategies for healing the heart
1. Acknowledge the waves of emotion
First things first: allow yourself to feel. Bottling up emotions is like trying to hold back a tidal wave. Let the tears flow, scream into a pillow if you want, write angst-filled poetry – whatever helps you process the pain. Acknowledge the anger, the sadness, the loneliness. It's okay to not be okay. Bottling up the pain is like putting a heavy object over a boiling kettle, it eventually bursts creating more even damage than if you had left it be.
2. Seek refuge in self-care
Think of your body and mind as a fragile flower in need of TLC. Nourish it with healthy meals, regular exercise, and enough sleep. Take long walks in nature, soak in a warm bath, and listen to calming music – activities that replenish your energy and soothe your soul. Taking care of yourself is important, because sometimes people may feel like what’s the point. The point is if you look good you feel good. So, boost your self-esteem and confidence with self-care.
3. Embrace the power of mindfulness
The present moment is your refuge from the storm of heartbreak. Mindfulness practices like meditation and deep breathing can anchor you in the now, providing a sense of calm and clarity amidst the emotional turbulence. Focus on your breath, the sounds around you, the physical sensations in your body. Let go of the past, don't worry about the future, be present and connected. We are 90% of what we think, if you engage in negative or critical thoughts, that is how the world around you will look like. Practicing mindfulness will take your mind away from the pain and focus your energy in the beauty of what is around you, creating a conducive atmosphere for healing the heart.
4. Build a support system
We are social creatures, and healing is best done in the company of loved ones. Lean on your trusted friends, family members, or even a therapist. Share your story, let them validate your feelings, and bask in the warmth of their understanding. Don't be afraid to ask for help, whether it's running errands, accompanying you on outings, or simply lending a listening ear. Avoid people who bring you down or criticize your decisions, this is not the time for that. An empowerment coach can help you in your healing journey.
5. Rediscover your passions
Heartbreak can dim your inner light, but it doesn't have to extinguish it. Reconnect with the things that make your soul sing, the hobbies you cherished before the storm hit. Read a captivating book, lose yourself in a creative project, and dance like nobody's watching. Reignite the spark of joy within you, and watch your spirit come alive again. The essence here is doing what you enjoy, try to avoid the things that remind you of what broke your heart, so you do not prolong your healing.
6. Forgive (yourself and others)
Holding onto anger and resentment is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to get sick. Forgiveness is a gift you give yourself, releasing the burden of negativity and paving the way for healing. Forgive your ex, forgive yourself for any perceived mistakes, and let go of the bitterness that weighs you down. You would be surprised how free and lightweight things become when you forgive. There is power in forgiving and remembering that you are doing it for your own mental and emotional well-being, that is what is important.
7. Celebrate your strength
Heartbreak may feel like a weakness, but it's a testament to your strength. You loved deeply, you dared to be vulnerable, and you're facing this pain head-on. Acknowledge your resilience, celebrate your progress, and embrace the lessons learned. This experience will refine you, making you stronger and wiser.
Remember, healing is a journey, not a destination. There will be good days and bad days, moments of doubt and surges of hope. Be patient with yourself, offer compassion at every turn, and trust that with time and these healing strategies, you will mend your broken heart and emerge stronger, braver, and ready to love again.
8. How I healed my heart
When my first marriage failed, I was brokenhearted. I couldn’t function and I spiraled into depression. It was the love of my sister who at one time came to live with me for a month just to give me emotional support. So, a supporting structure is very important to lean on. Acknowledging your pain is also vital. The strategies I shared with are what helped to heal my heart and be who I am today. I am now happily married again and have made a life for myself in a different country. For me, the silver lining from the heartbreak showed me how strong I am and gave me the courage to start over. You can find true happiness again if you allow your heart to heal.
Bonus Strategies:
Start a gratitude journal: Focus on the positive things in your life, even the small ones. Gratitude shifts your perspective and fosters a sense of well-being.
Challenge negative thoughts: Don't let self-doubt and blame become your companions. Reframe negative thoughts into positive affirmations, reminding yourself of your worth and resilience.
Don't rush into another relationship: Take time to heal, rediscover yourself, and set healthy boundaries before venturing into another love story.
Seek professional help if needed: If the pain feels overwhelming or you're struggling to cope, don't hesitate to seek support from a therapist. They can provide valuable tools and guidance on your healing journey.
Remember, you are not alone. Heartbreak is a universal experience, and there's a whole community out there cheering you on. So, pick up the pieces, dust yourself off, and embrace the journey of healing the heart. You've got this!
Sasa Evans, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine
Sasa Evans is a holistic mindset and life coach for women who want more confidence and transformation in their lives. Sasa had a very emotionally abusive first marriage which had a damaging effect on her mindset, and it took her a long time to regain her confidence and create a life she desired. She realised that emotional abuse does not leave visible scars and people tend to hide it, even though they are hurting. Her passion is to empower women to take positive steps to rebuild self-confidence with determined passion, unconstrained self-belief, and have absolute joy in their life. She is CEO of Sasa Evans coaching, and an accredited life coach, certified Reiki practitioner and holistic modalities coach.
