How to Build a Self-Care Routine After Divorce
Divorce can feel like standing at the edge of a brand-new world—one that feels both exciting and terrifying at the same time. After all the papers are signed and the dust begins to settle, you’re often left facing the most important relationship of all: the one with yourself. Healing after divorce isn’t just about moving on—it’s about moving inward. It’s about nurturing your heart, your spirit, and your dreams, piece by precious piece.
Creating a self-care routine after divorce isn’t a luxury—it’s a lifeline. It’s how you remind yourself that you are worthy, you are whole, and you are capable of creating beauty from even the most broken places. If you’re wondering where to begin, know that you don’t have to have it all figured out right now. All you need is a willingness to take one small, loving step at a time.
Here’s how you can start building a self-care routine that feels like a true homecoming to yourself.
Permit Yourself to Grieve
Self-care after divorce begins with honoring your emotions—all of them. There is no “right” way to feel after a divorce. Some days you may feel strong and empowered; other days you might feel overwhelmed by sadness, anger, or even guilt. All of it is valid.
Instead of trying to rush through the pain, give yourself permission to grieve. Set aside intentional time to sit with your feelings without judgment. Journaling, therapy, or simply talking to a trusted friend can help you process your emotions in a healthy, healing way. Remember: healing isn’t linear. Give yourself grace.
Reclaim Your Mornings
How you start your day shapes everything that follows. After divorce, your mornings offer a powerful opportunity to pour love back into yourself before the world makes any demands.
Try creating a morning routine that feels nourishing rather than overwhelming. This might include:
– Waking up 15 minutes earlier for quiet reflection
– Reading a devotional, an empowering book, or a few positive affirmations
– Savoring a slow, mindful cup of coffee or tea
– Stretching, moving your body, or practicing deep breathing
The goal isn’t perfection—it’s connection. It’s about reconnecting with yourself in simple, consistent ways.
If you’re looking for daily inspiration, my book Girl Yes: Becoming Ambitious, Beautiful & Confident is filled with empowering lessons and affirmations to help you step boldly into your next chapter.*)
Create a Sacred Space Just for You
After sharing a home, a life, and a rhythm with someone else, it’s important to carve out a space that feels uniquely yours. Whether it’s a cozy reading nook, a corner for meditation, or a small altar with candles and affirmations, creating a sacred space gives you a physical reminder that your peace matters.
Fill your space with things that bring you joy—fresh flowers, soft blankets, inspiring quotes, and photos that make you smile. This isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about claiming a piece of your world as yours and yours alone.
Practice Saying “Yes” to Yourself
Divorce can leave you feeling unsure of your worth or hesitant to trust your own voice. That’s why one of the most powerful self-care practices is learning to say “yes” to yourself again.
Say Yes to rest.
Girl, Yes to boundaries.
Hell, Yes to trying new things.
Yes to rediscovering passions you put on hold.
Start small. Say yes to a walk in the sunshine, yes to signing up for that painting class. Girl Yes to saying no when something doesn’t feel right. Every “yes” is a step back to yourself.
Prioritize Your Physical Health
It’s easy to let your physical health slip by the wayside when you’re emotionally overwhelmed, but your body and spirit are deeply connected. Not only are physical wellness practices like moving your body, eating healthily, and getting adequate sleep important, but they are also acts of self-love.
You don’t need to overhaul your entire lifestyle overnight. I mean, we already got too much going on as it is! You can start. Or it’s a nap. Better yet, it’s dancing around your living room to your favorite song. (Which happens to be my ultimate favorite thing to do). Every act of care matters, even the simplest gesture.
Surround Yourself with Safe, Supportive People
Healing after divorce often means reshaping your support system. Some relationships will strengthen; others may naturally fall away—and that’s okay. What matters most is surrounding yourself with people who see your light, even when you’re struggling to see it yourself.
Seek out friends, family, mentors, or support groups who lift you up, listen without judgment, and encourage your growth. Healing happens faster when you’re not doing it alone.
Nurture Your Dreams and Goals
Divorce is an ending, yes—but it’s also a blank canvas. Now is the time to ask yourself: What dreams have I tucked away? What passions have I silenced? Who do I want to become?
This is a new beginning and awakening!
Maybe you want to travel somewhere you’ve always dreamed of. Maybe you want to go back to school, launch a business, or write a book. Whatever your dreams are, give yourself permission to pursue them unapologetically.
If you need encouragement to chase those dreams, Girl Yes* is packed with guidance to help you reignite your ambition and believe in the beauty of your journey.
Adopt an Extreme Kindness Practice
Above all, remember this: you are doing the best you can. Some days will feel easy; others will feel impossibly hard. That doesn’t mean you’re failing—it means you’re healing. And healing takes time and patience, with yourself.
Be bold in your self-compassion. Talk to yourself the same as you would your best friend. Instead of letting harsh self-talk or times of doubt consume you, take a moment to be kind to yourself.
You are worthy of love, grace, and joy—not because of what you do, but simply because of who you are.
Final Thoughts: Becoming Whole Again
Building a self-care routine after divorce isn’t about rushing to “get over it.” It’s about creating a life that feels true, beautiful, and anchored in self-love. It’s about gently gathering the scattered pieces of your heart and weaving them into something even stronger and more radiant than before.
You are not broken. You are becoming.
And every small step you take—every journal entry, every morning walk, every brave “yes”—is a celebration of your resilience and your rebirth.
If you’re ready to start that journey, *Girl Yes: Becoming Ambitious, Beautiful & Confident* is a beautiful companion to remind you that everything you need is already within you. The most beautiful chapters of your story are still ahead.
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