The first weekend without your kids can be lonely. The house is too quiet causing you to think too much.
This sadness is part of divorce that no one really mentions.
No one can help remove this sadness. You’ll need to work through this change as you transition into your post-divorce life.
Engaging in physical activity will help distract you. It will also increase your endorphins and boost your mood.
After my divorce, I trained for a marathon. Now, you don’t need to go to that extreme but find something to keep you committed to physical activity.
For starters, go for a walk. Schedule a time when it’s cool outside. If it’s still too hot, find an indoor mall to walk.
My preference is to walk without using music. It gives me time to think and to enjoy nature while I’m outside. It also keeps me alert when crossing streets.
Back in the 1990s, I read Susan Powter’s book “Stop the Insanity.” After her divorce, she started walking a few minutes a day and gradually increased her walking time. It’s been a while since I read her book, but I remember it being inspirational.
If you need more structure to stay committed, sign-up for a fitness class. There are so many choices available that you’re bound to find an activity you enjoy. Choices include spinning, bootcamp, Jazzercise, Zumba, and many more.
If a fitness class doesn’t appeal to you, then look for groups that engage in physical activity. For example, your church may offer hikes, rafting, or even indoor rock climbing events.
If you can’t seem to get motivated to leave your home, then sign up for online classes. I use BeachBody on demand. They have virtual coaches and online support groups to keep you motivated and engaged.
You may not need to lose weight but engaging in physical activity will help boost your mood. And if you do need to lose weight, you’ll find this regular activity may help you. Your post-divorce life will be filled with changes – some are easier to handle than others. Be kind to yourself as you transition.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Niv Persaud, CFP®, CDFA™, RICP®, CRPC®, is the Founder of Transition Planning & Guidance, LLC. Life is more than money. It’s about living the lifestyle you want and can afford. For that reason, Niv consults with clients on money, life, and work. Her approach capitalizes on techniques she learned throughout her career, including as a management consultant, executive recruiter, and financial advisor. Her services include developing spending plans, comprehensive financial plans, divorce financial reviews, retirement plans. Niv actively gives back to her community through her volunteer efforts. She believes in living life to the fullest by cherishing friendships, enjoying the beauty of nature and laughing often — even at herself. Her favorite quote is by Erma Bombeck, “When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left and could say ‘I used everything you gave me.’”