by The death of a loved one, the dissolution of a friendship, or the end of a romantic relationship, can all be so heartbreaking, the pain of which is unfathomable. Grief is a universal human experience that can leave us broken, lost, and overwhelmed by emotional pain. The anxiety that accompanies grief poses a formidable challenge to our mental and emotional well-being. Your healing journey may take time depending on the depth of your wound. However, you are not alone, we all go through difficult times of grief, and the good news is that everything can be understood and healed. Let’s find out how to heal a broken heart!
Health Shots contacted Jaisleen Kaur, Image Consultant and Life Coach, Dehradun, to understand how to heal a broken heart.
Signs of a broken heart
Recognizing the signs of a broken heart is crucial to understanding your emotional state and beginning the healing process. Here are some signs of a broken heart from an expert.
1. Intense emotional pain
Overwhelming sadness, heartbreak, and a lingering feeling of emptiness are the hallmarks of a broken heart.
2. Physical symptoms
Grief can manifest physically, leading to symptoms such as insomnia, loss of appetite, fatigue, and headaches.
3. Withdrawal and isolation
You may find yourself withdrawing from social activities, friends, and loved ones, preferring solitude to companionship.
4. Ruminations
Repeatedly thinking about the past, replaying memories, and wondering “what if” are common signs of a broken heart.
5. Loss of interest
A decrease in interest in activities you once enjoyed is a clear indicator of emotional distress.
10 Tips to Help You Heal from Heartbreak
Our expert shares some of the ways that can help you heal your broken heart.
1. Acceptance and self-compassion
“Acknowledge your pain and practice self-compassion. Understand that it’s okay to feel what you feel and to allow yourself to grieve,” says the expert.
2. Seek help
Reach out to friends, family, or a therapist who can listen and guide you through your healing journey.
3. Mindfulness and meditation
“Practices like mindfulness and meditation can help you manage your emotions and stay grounded in the present moment. It can help calm the mind, reduce anxiety, and promote emotional healing. It is a powerful tool for introspection and inner peace. Practice staying present in the moment. Often, the pain of grief is exacerbated by dwelling on the past or worrying about the future,” explains the expert.
4. Make yourself a priority and take care of yourself
Prioritize self-love and self-care. Prioritize your needs and invest in activities that bring you joy and fulfillment. Prioritize self-care activities that support your physical and emotional well-being. This includes exercise, a balanced diet and adequate rest.
Also read: Have you just broken up? Here are 8 do’s and don’ts to help you cope with grief
5. Set boundaries and create a new identity
The expert says: “If the heartbreak is due to a relationship, establish healthy boundaries to protect your emotional health and avoid further pain. Rediscover your interests and passions. Take this opportunity to explore new hobbies and develop stronger self-esteem.”
6. Forgiveness
Recognize the power of forgiveness. Forgiving yourself and those who caused pain can be liberating. This does not mean condoning their actions, but rather releasing the emotional burden that can keep you anchored in pain.
7. Community and Connection
“Engage with supportive communities and connect with people who are going through similar experiences. Sharing your journey with others can provide a sense of belonging and understanding,” suggests the expert.
8. Express your gratitude
Cultivate gratitude for the positive aspects of your life. Gratitude can shift your focus from what you have lost to what you still have.
9. Let your good vibes protect you
“Surround yourself with positivity. Protect yourself from negativity and let your good vibrations serve as a protective force in your life. Cultivate a positive mindset. Challenge negative thoughts and replace them with affirmations of self-worth and resilience,” adds the expert.
10. Achieve a higher goal and find happiness
Explore your sense of purpose and meaning in life. Connect with activities and goals that align with your higher purpose. Understand that true happiness comes from within. As you heal and grow, you will move closer to a state of true contentment and joy.
Remember that healing takes time and every step you take brings you closer to a better, more fulfilling future.
