Toxic relationships can do a real number on a person’s self esteem. If a partner consistently behaves in hurtful and disrespectful ways, the other partner can become depressed, feel as if he or she is incapable, inferior, or mentally unbalanced, or become convinced he or she cannot make it on his or her own. It takes great courage and strength to leave a toxic relationship, and it is important to give yourself the support to help you rebuild a damaged self esteem. Here are 4 steps to boosting your self esteem after a toxic relationship:
1. Take good care of your body. Eat healthy meals, avoid highly processed foods and refined sugars, and eat lots of fruit, vegetables, proteins, and whole grains. Take vitamins and supplements as advised by your natural health practitioner – many people can benefit from a food based multivitamin and fish oil to start. Work into a doctor approved exercise program emphasizing cardiovascular exercises to elevate your heart rate, release endorphins, and boost your mood.
2. Talk things out and spend time around your support network. Emotional support and affirmation of your value from friends and family is very important for helping you get back on your feet and feeling better about yourself. If you find yourself having trouble functioning or sorting through your feelings, you might want to see a counselor to help you put things in proper perspective and deal with these emotions in a healthy manner.
3. Assess your other relationships with instincts fully intact. Begin to note how you physically react to positive or negative events or interactions with others. Note how you get tense, queasy, anxious, or get a sinking feeling in the pit of your stomach around certain people, and note how you feel relaxed, peaceful, and at ease with others. Begin moving toward the types of relationships that leave you feeling positive and uplifted, rather than shamed, anxious, or fearful. You instincts are likely trying to warn you of the impending danger to your emotional, physical, or even spiritual health.
4. Do small things for yourself to send the message to your mind that you are worthy. Make a list of small activities or treats you enjoy, and choose one to complete each day. You’ll have a moment of enjoyment to look forward to daily, and will be sending your brain a message that you are worth the effort and indulgence.
|
By the way, what is holding you back from making the best choices to achieve the life you deserve? For a free copy of my ebook, “Strategies For Escaping Emotional Abuse”, click here:http://www.stoptoxicrelationships.com/gifts-strategiesforescapingemotionalabuse.html Shannon Cook is a personal coach and resource guide who has written a number of informative articles and ebooks on the topic of toxic relationships and “difficult” divorces, including the physical, emotional, practical and relationship components. |
