By Mark Shields

Divorce can be a truly painful experience, and people deal with the aftermath in different ways. Some begin to see the light at the end of the tunnel quickly, while others continue to foster darkness and deeper feelings of pain and loss.  The key is to choose the path that leads you towards the light by keeping yourself active, staying close with friends, developing new relationships and becoming a healthier person mentally, physically and spiritually.

Stay Active

Once divorced, you may find you have much more time on your hands to participate in activities you’ve always wanted to do. Have you ever wanted to take a tennis lesson?  Now is the time to do it!   You might also consider joining an adventure group who experiences the wonders of the outdoors and who climbs, bikes, hikes or simply meanders through the paths and trails of nature.  There are organizations of all kinds that don’t necessarily call themselves ‘support’ groups, but just turn out to be supportive.  It’s a great way to meet new and interesting people and to get in touch with yourself.   Some other ideas include: book clubs, ballroom dancing and taking fitness classes at a gym.  No matter what your interest, do some research to find your niche.

Write

Writing is another way to exfoliate your pain.  Grab a leather journal, and begin a journey.   Write down everything you feel, think and dream without anyone looking over your shoulder.  There should be no one there to judge your; you’re just answering to yourself.  It’s a great way to cleanse your system of all of the hurt and pain you’ve recently experienced.

…For more ideas about how to deal with life after divorce, click here.