People who glow differently after a toxic relationship usually do these 7 things in their free time

Escaping a toxic relationship can feel like breaking free from heavy chains. But once you’re out, how do you rebuild your life, your self-esteem, and your happiness?

I’ve noticed that those who really thrive after a toxic relationship often have unique habits in their spare time that promote healing and personal growth.

I’ve got good news for you – these habits are not exclusive. They’re simple actions anyone can incorporate into their everyday lives. And they’re not just for recovery – they’re about building a stronger, more authentic you.

In this piece, we’ll be exploring seven things that people who glow differently after a toxic relationship usually do in their free time. These aren’t quick fixes – they’re part of a lifestyle change that helps you align with your true potential.

Let’s dive in.

1) They practice mindfulness

Bouncing back from a toxic relationship isn’t just about moving on – it’s about building a better relationship with yourself. And one of the most effective tools for this is mindfulness.

Mindfulness is more than a buzzword. It’s about being present in the moment, accepting your feelings without judgement, and understanding that thoughts are just thoughts – they’re not who you are.

When you’ve been in a toxic relationship, it’s easy to get lost in negative thoughts and self-doubt. But mindfulness allows you to observe these thoughts without getting swept away by them.

People who glow differently after a toxic relationship often use their free time to practice mindfulness. This can be through meditation, yoga, or simply taking a few minutes each day to sit quietly and observe their thoughts.

By practicing mindfulness regularly, they’re able to break free from negative thought patterns and build a stronger, more positive relationship with themselves.

And this isn’t just an escape from past toxicity – it’s a path towards a happier, healthier future.

2) They disconnect to reconnect

In today’s hyper-connected world, it might seem counterintuitive to purposely unplug. But people who flourish after a toxic relationship often do exactly that. They intentionally disconnect from the digital world during their free time.

This doesn’t mean they completely abandon technology or social media. Instead, they set specific times to be offline, allowing them to truly engage with their surroundings and their inner selves.

Disconnecting from the constant stream of information and digital interactions provides space for self-reflection, creativity, and peace. It’s an opportunity to engage with the real world and build deeper connections with themselves and others.

This practice of intentional disconnection helps them rediscover their passions, interests, and individuality that may have been overshadowed or lost during the toxic relationship.

It’s a seemingly simple yet powerful way to reclaim personal power and cultivate a healthier sense of self.

3) They invest in personal growth

People flourishing post-toxic relationships often invest a significant amount of their free time in personal growth.

They read books, attend seminars, listen to podcasts, or even take courses that help them understand their past experiences and how to move forward.

One of the resources that has been particularly helpful for many is a book on overcoming codependency in relationships. It’s a guide that offers insights into why we sometimes get stuck in harmful relationship patterns and how to break free.

It’s about understanding that your worth is not tied to someone else and that you have the power to create healthier, happier relationships.

This kind of self-education is crucial. It provides the tools to understand past experiences, learn from them, and make better choices in the future.

4) They embrace solitude

Embracing solitude can be a powerful tool for personal growth, especially after leaving a toxic relationship. Those who glow differently often cherish their alone time, using it as an opportunity to recharge, introspect, and cultivate self-love.

As the renowned author and poet, Maya Angelou, once said, “The quality of strength lined with tenderness is an unbeatable combination”.

In solitude, we find the space to be tender with ourselves, to heal, and to find the strength we need to move forward.

During my own journey, I’ve found that solitude isn’t about being alone—it’s about being with yourself. It’s during these quiet moments that you can reflect on who you are and who you want to be. It’s a time for self-discovery, growth, and building resilience.

So consider spending some quality alone time. You might be surprised by what you discover about yourself.

5) They prioritize physical health

It’s often said that the mind and body are connected, and in my experience, this couldn’t be more accurate. Those who glow differently after a toxic relationship understand this connection and make their physical health a priority.

It might be through regular exercise, maintaining a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, or all of the above. These might seem like basic necessities, but they’re often overlooked during stressful times or in toxic relationships where self-care takes a backseat.

But when we nourish our bodies, we’re also nourishing our minds. Physical health impacts mental health, and vice versa. The act of taking care of your body can be a powerful assertion of self-worth and a vital step in the healing process.

So next time you have some free time, consider going for a run, cooking a healthy meal, or getting an early night’s sleep. Your body—and mind—will thank you for it.

6) They practice gratitude

Practicing gratitude can transform the way we view the world.

Instead of focusing on what’s wrong or what we lack, we shift our attention to what’s right and what we have. This simple shift in perspective can have profound effects on our mental health and overall happiness.

As Oprah Winfrey once said, “Be thankful for what you have; you’ll end up having more. If you concentrate on what you don’t have, you will never, ever have enough.”

This rings true for those who glow differently after a toxic relationship. They understand the power of gratitude and make it a part of their daily routine.

In my own life, I’ve found that starting or ending the day by writing down three things I’m grateful for has made a significant positive impact. It’s a gentle reminder that even in the face of adversity, there is always something to be thankful for.

If you’re curious about more ways to foster growth and healing after a toxic relationship, I’d love for you to follow me on Facebook. I frequently share articles and insights that you might find helpful on your journey.

7) They allow themselves to feel

Healing isn’t always pretty. It can be messy, uncomfortable, and downright painful at times. But those who glow differently after a toxic relationship understand that feeling is healing.

They don’t shy away from their emotions or try to suppress them.

Instead, they allow themselves to feel everything – the anger, the sadness, the relief, the hope. They understand that these feelings are all part of the healing process and that it’s okay to not be okay sometimes.

It’s a raw and honest journey, but it’s also liberating. By allowing themselves to truly feel, they’re able to process their emotions, let go of the past, and make room for the future.

It’s okay to feel. It’s okay to cry, to scream, to laugh. It’s all part of the healing process. So give yourself permission to feel. It’s not a sign of weakness – it’s a sign of strength.

A glimpse into the healing journey

Healing from a toxic relationship isn’t a linear process. It’s a journey that involves peaks and valleys, moments of profound self-discovery, and instances of quiet introspection.

It’s about accepting the past, embracing the present, and shaping a future that aligns with your authentic self.

The seven habits explored in this article offer a glimpse into the world of those who’ve successfully turned a painful experience into an opportunity for growth.

Every journey is unique and what works for one person may not work for another. But the underlying theme remains constant: the commitment to self-improvement and personal growth.

It’s through this lens that we can view our past experiences not as defining moments, but as stepping stones towards becoming the best version of ourselves.

For those looking for more insights into this journey of personal growth after a toxic relationship, I’ve found this video by Justin Brown particularly insightful.

He eloquently explains why it’s important to give up on the idea of the perfect partner and recognize that relationships are about commitment, embracing challenges, and growing together.

May this article serve as a starting point in your healing journey, and may you find peace, strength, and an iridescent glow in your journey ahead.