Rediscovering Joy: Activities to Help You Heal after Divorce
Activities to Help You Heal After Divorce
Going through a divorce can feel like having the rug pulled out from under you. Everything shifts and changes, and your daily routine changes; your friends may change, your job can change, and you can change. It isn’t easy and one where adjustments are daily to your new life.
Finding joy after such a significant event doesn’t happen overnight, but small, intentional steps can make a difference. Here are some activities to help you start healing and reconnecting with the parts of life that make you happy.
1. Explore New Hobbies or Pick Up Old Ones
Divorce often leaves people with time and space they didn’t have before. After a divorce, it may feel as if you have more free time and time for yourself. This makes it a wonderful time to find a new hobby or try something new. Even if it’s something small, a new hobby can be a light that adds to your curiosity and gives you the creativity you may have been lacking before.
Ideas to Consider when searching for a new hobby:
Have you always wanted to try painting? Find a local art class or start with some supplies at home.
Do you love being hands-on? DIY projects or gardening can be deeply satisfying.
Have you been meaning to learn something new? Check out online courses or community classes on topics that interest you.
You don’t need to become an expert at anything—this is about enjoying the process, seeing what brings you joy, and reconnecting with your inner self.
2. Reconnect with Nature
There’s something undeniably calming about being outdoors. The water, ground, ocean, lakes, mountains, or even your very own porch can be a way to connect with the outside.
How to Connect with the Outdoors:
Take a walk in your neighborhood or find a nearby trail.
Plan a picnic at a local park—it doesn’t have to be elaborate, and you can keep it simple.
Spend a morning at the beach, even if it’s to listen to the waves. If you don’t have a beach nearby or any body of water, such as a lake, stream, river, etc.,
You don’t have to be an “outdoorsy” to benefit from time in nature. It’s about finding a quiet moment to breathe and recharge.
3. Move Your Body in Ways That Feel Good
Exercise might not be a priority after divorce, but movement is known to improve mood and increase those positive endorphins.
What to Try Out for Exercise:
Yoga is gentle on the body and great for calming the mind.
Dancing (yes, even alone in your living room) is a fun way to let loose.
Walking is simple, low-pressure, and something you can do anywhere.
Start small, and remember that this isn’t about hitting fitness goals or becoming an expert in fitness—it’s about feeling good in your body again and releasing feel-good chemicals that come with exercising or even gentle body movement.
4. Get Into a Good Book or Podcast
Sometimes, losing yourself in a story is the best way to shift focus. Books and podcasts can transport you to a different world, give you new insights, or offer a comforting distraction.
Suggestions:
Read a feel-good novel or something inspiring.
Explore self-help books that focus on personal growth or resilience.
Listen to podcasts—there’s one for every interest, from humor to storytelling to life advice.
Stories remind us that challenges are universal and healing is possible.
5. Spend Time with People Who Uplift You
Divorce can change your social landscape. Some relationships might fade, and others may deepen. Rebuilding your circle takes time, but spending time with people genuinely caring about you can be incredibly healing.
Ways to Connect:
Reach out to an old friend for coffee or a casual chat.
Join a local group or club that aligns with your interests.
Consider volunteering—it’s a great way to meet like-minded people while making a difference.
You don’t need a large circle; even one or two meaningful connections can remind you that you’re not alone.
6. Practice Gratitude and Mindfulness
After divorce, it’s easy to focus on what’s missing. Gratitude and mindfulness can help shift your perspective to what’s still good in your life—even if it’s something small.
Simple Ways to Practice:
Start a gratitude journal and jot down one or two things you’re thankful for daily.
Spending five minutes each morning focusing on your breath is a small but powerful reset.
Try guided meditations using an app or online videos.
These practices aren’t about ignoring your pain; they’re about finding balance and giving yourself moments of peace.
7. Treat Yourself to a Change of Scenery
You don’t need a big vacation to benefit from a change of pace. Sometimes, even a short trip or a new experience in your city can feel refreshing.
Ideas for a Mini Adventure:
Visit a nearby town you’ve never explored before.
Spend the day at a local museum, botanical garden, or historical site.
Take yourself on a “date” to a new café or restaurant.
Stepping out of your usual routine, even briefly, can reignite your sense of curiosity and adventure.
8. Talk to a Counselor
Moving forward after divorce sometimes feels too much to handle on your own—and that’s okay. At Sagebrush Counseling, we can help you process your emotions, rebuild your confidence, and create a vision for your future, making the post-divorce identity that fits your new life.
Counseling isn’t about “fixing” anything; it’s about giving you the tools and support you need to heal in your own time and on your terms.
9. Join a Divorce Group
Divorce support groups can be such a game-changer for mental health. They create a safe, understanding space where you can share your thoughts and emotions with people who genuinely get it. These groups help you feel less alone, especially when everything feels uncertain or overwhelming. To learn more about divorce support groups we offer, check them out here.
Final Thoughts
Healing after divorce is a journey. It’s not about rushing to feel better or pretending everything’s okay—it’s about taking small steps toward rediscovering what makes you happy. Some days will feel more straightforward than others, and that’s normal. The important thing is to keep going.
Little by little, you’ll rebuild a life that feels meaningful and joyful. And remember: you’re stronger than you think, and there’s so much good waiting for you ahead.
If you’re stuck or unsure where to start, our counselors are here to help. Contact us today to schedule a session and take the first step toward rediscovering your joy.
FAQ: Rediscovering Joy – Activities to Help You Heal After Divorce
Q: Why does it feel so hard to enjoy things after my divorce?
It’s completely normal to feel this way. Divorce is a significant loss—it’s not just the end of a relationship but also the life you imagined for yourself with that person. The grief, stress, and uncertainty that follow can make it hard to focus on or enjoy the things that used to bring you happiness. Be gentle with yourself. Healing takes time, and part of that process is giving yourself permission to rediscover what lights you up slowly.
Q: How do I start finding joy again?
Start small. Do one little thing each day. Over time, as you try new things, joy begins to sneak back in, often when you least expect it.
Q: What are some activities that can help me heal emotionally?
There are so many ways to support your emotional healing through activities. Journaling is one of my favorites—it gives you a space to express your feelings and process what you’re going through.
Q: How do I find the energy to try new activities when I’m feeling so drained?
This is such a common struggle, and it’s okay to feel that way. Divorce takes a toll on your emotional and physical energy, so start with activities that feel manageable rather than overwhelming. For example, if you don’t have the energy to join a gym, try taking a 10-minute walk outside. If socializing feels hard, start with one-on-one coffee dates instead of larger gatherings. The idea isn’t to push yourself too hard—to gently reintroduce moments of connection and movement in a doable way.
Q: What are some fun ways to rediscover myself after divorce?
Think of this time as a chance to reconnect with parts of yourself that may have been on the back burner during your relationship. Maybe there’s a hobby you’ve always wanted to try, like gardening, pottery, or dance classes. Traveling solo—even a weekend trip to a nearby town—can be a powerful way to rediscover who you are outside the context of your marriage. Volunteering is another excellent option—it’s deeply fulfilling and can connect you with others in a meaningful way. Think of this as a time to say yes to things that genuinely interest or excite you.
Q: How can I make new friends after divorce?
Making friends as an adult can feel hard but with sites like meetup.com or activities in your local neighborhood can make big differences. If you’re open to volunteering, that’s another great way to meet like-minded people. Building new connections takes time, so give yourself grace and celebrate small wins, like having a meaningful conversation or finding someone who shares your interests.
Q: What if I feel guilty for having fun after my divorce?
Guilt after divorce is common. It’s okay to start small—give yourself permission to laugh, to enjoy, and to explore without guilt.
Q: Are there specific activities that can help rebuild my confidence?
Absolutely. Confidence often takes a hit after divorce, but activities that challenge you or allow you to accomplish something new can really help.
Q: How can I make time for myself when I’m still juggling responsibilities like parenting or work?
Balancing everything after divorce is tough, but even carving out small pockets of time for yourself can make a difference. Start with 10 to 15 minutes a day—maybe journaling before bed, having coffee on the porch in the morning, or listening to your favorite podcast on the drive to work. If you’re parenting, lean on your support system when possible, and remind yourself that taking care of you is also taking care of your family.
Q: Can therapy help me rediscover joy after divorce?
Absolutely. Having a therapist along your post-divorce journey is great idea for growth. A therapist can help you work through feelings of guilt, or anger while also guiding you toward practices and activities that support your healing. Whether you’re feeling stuck or just need help clarifying what you want in this next chapter, therapy offers a safe space to explore your emotions and rebuild your confidence.
Q: How long does it take to feel happy again after divorce?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this question because healing is different for each person. Celebrate small wins along the way—moments of laughter, new connections, or even just feeling at peace for a little while. Over time, those small moments build, and joy begins to feel more natural again.
