Finding peace - How to de-stress after a traumatic event

Have you ever had a really traumatic event? Something like a breakup, divorce or bereavement? If yes, please accept my sympathy!

I had a messy divorce when I was just over 40 years old. I had six young children. My ex said he had found two new loves and wanted to marry the two women in Nigerian traditional law. The women were at least 20 - 40 years younger than he was.

He said: "Come back to Nigeria and join them!"

Of course, I said: "NO!" and asked for a divorce.

That was when my trauma began. It left a lasting impact on my mental and emotional well-being. I struggled to get over the pain of my divorce for many years. That was because I didn't have support of any kind, like family members or a coach. 

Don't suffer like I did. I have listed some strategies that will help you overcome your pain. So, read this article and if you need my help as your coach, I'll be happy to help. All you need to do is book a free call with me to get started.

Remember, It's essential to prioritise self-care and take deliberate steps to manage stress and promote healing. Let's now look at some effective strategies to help you de-stress after a traumatic event, and work towards finding inner peace.

1. Acknowledge your feelings

The first step towards healing is acknowledging and accepting your emotions. Allow yourself to feel without judgment. Whether it's anger, sadness, or fear, recognising and expressing your feelings is a crucial part of the healing process.

2. Seek professional support

Consider reaching out to a mental health professional or a coach, who can provide guidance and support tailored to your needs. Therapy can be a safe space to explore your emotions, develop coping mechanisms, and gain insights into your experiences.

3. Connect with supportive individuals

Surround yourself with a strong support system. Share your thoughts and feelings with trusted friends, family members, or support groups. Choose carefully, though, as you don't want to invite people who would be very critical of your every move or people who are judgemental of you. Connecting with others who have experienced similar situations, maybe on Meetup Forums, can also provide a sense of understanding and validation.

4. Practise mindfulness and meditation.

Incorporate mindfulness and meditation into your daily routine. These practices can help you stay present, manage anxiety, and promote a sense of calm. Guided meditation or mindfulness apps can be valuable tools to get started.

5. Engage in relaxation techniques

Explore various relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, or yoga. These activities can help reduce physical tension, promote relaxation, and improve overall well-being.

6. Establish a routine

Create a daily routine that includes activities you find comforting and enjoyable. A structure can provide a sense of stability and predictability, helping to alleviate some of the stress associated with uncertainty.

7. Limit exposure to triggers

Identify and minimize exposure to triggers that may exacerbate your stress. This may involve limiting media consumption, avoiding certain places, or setting boundaries with individuals who may unintentionally contribute to your distress.

8. Engage in physical activity

Regular exercise has been proven to reduce stress and improve mood. Find a form of physical activity that you enjoy, whether it's walking, jogging, dancing, or yoga. Exercise releases endorphins, promoting a positive outlook.

9. Express yourself creatively

Channel your emotions into creative outlets such as writing, art, or music. Expressing yourself creatively can be therapeutic and provide an alternative way to process and release intense emotions.

10. Celebrate small achievements

Acknowledge and celebrate small achievements along your healing journey. Whether it's completing a challenging task or simply getting through a difficult day, recognising your progress can boost your self-esteem and motivation.

Healing from a traumatic event, such as a breakup, a divorce or a bereavement, is a gradual process, and finding effective ways to de-stress is crucial for your well-being. By incorporating these strategies into your daily life, you can nurture your mind, body, and spirit as you work towards reclaiming a sense of peace and resilience. Remember, seeking professional help is a sign of strength, and you don't have to navigate this journey alone.

If you have had a breakup or divorce and are struggling to restore your happiness and self-worth, I can help. Book a 30-minute free discovery call to discuss your needs.

Take care!