Couples may want a marriage to last, but sometimes marital bliss turns sour and people decide to part ways.

Although you may be suffering from emotional turmoil, you can still find peace in the midst of the stress of divorce. There are ways to combat stress and care for your mental health during this tumultuous time.

Seven ideas for reducing stress

Now is a good time to begin developing positive habits that will help as you navigate divorce and begin your new life. The following may be useful in lowering your stress levels:

• Exercise regularly. Health care professionals recommend exercising for at least 30 minutes per day. Exercise can elevate your mood and reduce tension in your body.
• Set goals. Establishing a goal for life after the finalization of your divorce gives you something to look forward to. If you have children, set goals with them as well, such as things you want to learn or do together.
• Read helpful books. Self-help books may help you learn how to communicate and work amicably with your spouse, particularly with co-parenting. If nothing else, reading can help you relax.
• Connect with friends and family. Personal connection and a strong support system are crucial when going through a life-changing event such as a divorce. Reach out to those closest to you to talk, get coffee, or just be together.
• Meditation. There are several types of meditation. Mindfulness meditation may help clear your mind and relax the body.
• Journal. Writing your thoughts and experiences may help you get certain thoughts and feelings out as opposed to keeping them bottled inside.
• Speak to a therapist. If your divorce is particularly contentious, having a regular visit with a therapist may help to combat stress, anxiety, and other issues.

Shifting to a new perspective

Divorce is a big change that often means learning to shift to a new life perspective. Developing good stress-management techniques now ultimately could help you and your family in the future.