Spring break is a time to let it all go: the stresses, responsibilities, engagements, significant others — you name it. According to data-journalist David Mccandless’ study of Facebook relationship status updates, the timeframe tops the chart for breakups.
Whether the relationship has been long term or not, being dumped never feels good. At best, it’s an ego bust; at worst, it breaks your heart.
In either case, if your heart is broken over Spring Break, here are some activities to get you out of the house and back in spirit.
1. Volunteer
It’s common to feel a little out of touch with yourself and those around you after a relationship ends. Being with someone molds who you are and once they’re gone, you’re forced to redefine and rediscover your path. I recommend getting started by volunteering with a local garden club.
Gardening is a physical activity, and by working with the earth, you perform an act that enables healing and reinforces positivity. You’re outside, you’re taking in the sun and you’re creating something good. At the end of the day, the work you’ve performed is tangible, meaningful and makes you feel accomplished.
Volunteering is always good for the soul, so whether it be at a garden, a kitchen or a shelter, make sure the work you’re doing will help somebody else. The deed will come back to you immediately.
2. Workout
It’s understandable if the last thing you want to do when you’re feeling down is exert more energy, but recovery is all about doing the things you don’t want to. So put one foot in front of the other and get your butt out of the house. You’ll feel better once you do.
Working out is not limited to the gym. You can take a walk by yourself or maybe do some cardio around the house. The key is to tire your body and sharpen your mind— that feeling comes best to me when I run.
Although, if you’re not a fan of any of the above, try taking a mat to your favorite park and performing some yoga. Not only will it give you strength and serenity, the breathing techniques will help you forgive and accept.
3. Reconnect with friends
Friends are an invaluable source of support and they often take second place when we’re in a relationship. This is why reconnecting with them is essential. Friends know how to make you laugh, they take you out of the house and help to challenge your comfort zones.
Feeling miserable post-breakup is easy, the difficult part is fighting against it. You have to be willing to allow yourself to feel better. Friends come in when you can’t sum up the courage yourself.
4. Make a playlist
One of the most annoying aspects of regaining a regular life after a breakup is realizing that some of your favorite songs and artists now carry memories best not thought of.
This might be a good time to find new jams and create a playlist from your new favorite songs. This may require asking friends for album suggestions on Spotify, going out to local concerts or picking up random cool-looking vinyl from the music store. The new discoveries will keep you looking ahead and they’ll show you great things are still out there to be found.
Always remember that the breakup blues don’t last forever. Sometimes they fade away slowly and disappear without notice, other times they linger until someone new and more deserving takes its place. However, if it happens to you, make sure you’ve learned the art of self-induced happiness and feel at peace with being by yourself.
