How To Get Through A Breakup On A Budget?

We’ve all heard the expression ‘money doesn’t buy happiness… but I’d rather cry in a Ferrari’. And this couldn’t be truer when it comes to a breakup. A lot of the advice given to get through a breakup involves having money to spare. Starting a new hobby can cost hundreds of dollars. The same goes for a bit of retail therapy. Even speaking with a therapist comes with a price tag. Of course, a breakup will always be painful, no matter how much money you have. But, a breakup is undeniably a lot easier if you’ve got a bit of extra cash to cushion the blow.

Maybe you were financially dependent on your ex? Have children to support? Perhaps you’re a college student? Or you’re simply on a tight budget and can’t afford to treat yourself? If this sounds like you, then keep on reading. In this article, we’ll look at how to get through a breakup. All without spending a single dime.

9 useful tips on how to get through a breakup on a budget

In an ideal world, you’d get over a breakup by jetting off to a tropical climate. Who wouldn’t like spending their days on the beach with a piña colada in hand? Of course, this is a slight exaggeration. But when you go through a breakup, you’re told to “keep busy” or “distract yourself”. Unfortunately, most ways of keeping busy or distracting yourself involve spending money. Well, if dinners with friends and gym memberships are out of your reach, don’t fear. Here are nine useful tips on how to get through a breakup on a budget.

1. Spend time with loved ones

   You need your loved ones more than ever during a breakup. And you shouldn’t let money stop you from doing this. While it’s nice to get dressed up and meet your friends in a bar or restaurant, this isn’t necessary. Invite your friends over to your house one evening. Or, go for a walk in your local park with a family member. The most important thing is to be around those who love you. Where you can talk, cry, laugh, dance, and hug it all. So, why not make this the comfort of your own home?

2. Spend some time in nature

While the urge to stay in bed all day is strong just after a breakup. This will only make you feel worse. Aim to get out of the house and spend some time in nature at least once a day. Make the most out of the nature you have around you. Whether it’s mountains, forests, beaches, or simply a park. A bit of vitamin D and fresh air will do wonders for you. And what’s even better? They’re free!

3. Exercise daily

   You don’t need to join the gym to exercise. There are multiple other ways to get your heart pumping without spending a dime. You could try:

   • running or jogging around your neighborhood;
   • following a yoga routine from YouTube in your backyard or local park;
   • weight training using your body weight — there are thousands of free tutorials online;
   • joining a hiking meetup in your area;
   • cycling if you own a bike, or joining a cycling group;
   • and HIIT workouts using online tutorials.

   Researchers have found that exercise improves mental health. By reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression, as well as improving low self-esteem. All of which you’ll likely feel during a breakup. Aim to do at least thirty minutes of exercise each day to lift your spirits and boost your confidence!

4. Eat a healthy and nutritious diet

   Eating a nutritious diet means eating a wide variety of food groups in the right proportions. Be sure to get plenty of:

   • vegetables;
   • fruits;
   • legumes;
   • nuts and seeds;
   • wholegrains;
   • fish and seafood;
   • and lean meat and dairy in moderation.

   The Mediterranean and traditional Japanese diets are highly nutritious. Studies show that following these diets reduces the risk of depression by 25 to 30 percent in comparison to the ‘Western’ diet. So, when you’re feeling those breakup blues, resist the urge to eat your body weight in ice cream and pizza. Instead, opt for some nutritious meals and snacks.

   Eating healthily does, however, come with a price tag. Ready-made meals and processed foods are often much cheaper. This shouldn’t stop you from eating well though. Consider food prepping, for example. If you don’t mind eating the same thing every day, make one large pot of something that you can dish out all week. You’ll save money and time- it’s a win-win!

5. Daily journaling

   Journalling is extremely therapeutic and completely free! It helps clear and calm your mind and can reduce anxiety and stress. Remember, no one will read this apart from you, so you can be completely honest with how you’re feeling. Jot down your thoughts and feelings in the morning or evening. As the weeks go by, you can look back at your previous entries and see how much progress you’re making.

6. Meditate daily

   Meditation is the Buddhist practice of awareness and going with the flow of your mind. During a breakup, it’s normal to mull over the past or feel anxious about the future. Including mindfulness meditation in your day helps you become calmer and anchored in the present moment. It might take a while to see a positive difference, but in the long term, regular practice can improve your mental wellbeing. A study in the American Journal of Psychiatry found that mindfulness meditation reduced anxiety and depression levels among all twenty-two participants in the study.

   To give mindfulness meditation a try, follow these simple steps:

   1. Sit in a comfortable position, either crossed or laid down.
   2. Focus on your breath by inhaling and exhaling deeply through your nose. Or, inhale through your nose and exhale through your mouth.
   3. Focus on your bodily sensations or your surroundings. What do you feel? What sounds can you hear?
   4. If your mind wanders, that’s fine. Bring your attention back to your breath.

Aim to do this for at least ten minutes a day. You can add on more time if you wish. Like with most things, practice makes perfect. So, don’t be put off if it takes a while to get into the habit of meditating. You’ll get there eventually!

7. Practice good sleep hygiene

   We often don’t give sleep the credit it deserves. But getting a good night’s rest is as crucial as drinking water, eating well, and exercising. What’s more, it costs absolutely nothing! If you’re going through a breakup, it’s common to have difficulties falling and staying asleep. Or, you might be sleeping too much. You should aim for around six to eight hours of sleep a night. To get the best night’s sleep possible, try:

   • avoiding caffeinated drinks up to six hours before you plan to sleep;
   • avoiding alcohol before bed;
   • avoiding large meals before bed;
   • disconnecting from electronic devices such as your mobile phone or laptop half an hour before going to sleep;
   • making your bed as comfortable as possible, with a good mattress and pillows;
   • controlling environmental factors such as light, noises, and other disturbances. Perhaps you could try using an eye mask or earplugs to help?
   • exercise regularly;
   • and, finally, going to bed around 10 pm or 11 pm.

If you’re really struggling with sleeping. Whether you’re sleeping too little or too much. Please don’t hesitate to get in touch with your healthcare provider. Together, you can explore your options.

8. Bump up the self-care

   When you’re going through a breakup, it’s normal for your confidence and self-esteem to dip a little. If you can’t afford to buy some new clothes, get a manicure, or anything else that gives you a confidence boost. Then it’s time to bump up the self-care. Self-care includes anything that makes you feel good during the activity and afterward. All of the things we’ve mentioned above are forms of self-care. Other free self-care activities you can try are reading, drawing, dancing, organizing your home, and going for a stroll.

9. Join a support group

   Support groups are safe places to share your experiences with others in a non-judgmental environment. With a Google or Facebook search, you can find a free support group in your area for breakups. Listening to others and sharing your own experiences and thoughts is a great way to heal. Especially if you were in a toxic relationship. Or if you don’t feel comfortable talking about certain topics with your loved ones.

One final note…

There are no rules when it comes to getting through a breakup. It’s a process filled with ups and downs and taking each day at a time. So, give yourself time to heal. And always remember to be kind to yourself. For more tips and advice on everything health and wellness, check out our masterclass library at Beginning.com.