How to Glow Up After a Breakup and Actually Succeed at It

The best post-breakup glow-up guide

Welcome to the ultimate guide on how to glow up after a breakup, because, let’s face it, nothing screams “I’m thriving” louder than a post-relationship transformation.

Forget the clichés about drowning your sorrows in Ben & Jerry’s or indulging in some good ol’ Taylor Swift anthems (although, no judgment if that’s your jam).

We’re about to embark on a journey of self-discovery, self-love, and yes, a sprinkle of revenge served ice-cold—because why not?

Trust me, I’ve been there, done that, and have the emotional scars to prove it.

But let me tell you something: amidst the tears, the heartache, and the inevitable pint of ice cream (or two), there lies a silver lining waiting to be seized.

This is your time to shine, and I’m here to be your trusty sidekick on this epic journey to becoming the badass version of yourself you were always meant to be.

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Post break-up physical glow-up

1. Start a skincare routine

Bid farewell to those late-night crying sessions wreaking havoc on your skin! Treat yourself to a skincare regimen that feels indulgent and therapeutic.

From cleansers to serums to luxurious moisturizers, pamper your skin with the love it deserves. Embrace the glow that comes with nourishing your skin from the inside out.

2. Exercise regularly

Channel that breakup angst into a killer workout routine.

Whether it’s hitting the gym, sweating it out in a yoga class, or going for a run in the great outdoors, get those endorphins flowing and sculpt the body you’ve always dreamed of.

Besides, there’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of seeing your strength and stamina soar post-breakup.

3. Get enough sleep

Say goodbye to restless nights filled with tossing, turning, and overthinking. Prioritize quality sleep to rejuvenate both your body and mind.

Invest in cozy bedding, unwind with a soothing bedtime ritual, and let yourself drift off into dreamland. Trust me, a well-rested glow is your new best friend.

4. Eat a balanced diet

Nourish your body with wholesome, nutritious foods that fuel your inner glow-up. Say hello to vibrant fruits, crisp veggies, lean proteins, and whole grains.

Ditch the junk food blues and opt for meals that leave you feeling energized and radiant from the inside out.

5. Hydrate adequately

Water, water everywhere, and not a drop to waste! Hydration is key to a dewy, luminous complexion.

Sip on H2O throughout the day, infuse it with fresh fruits for a flavorful twist, and watch as your skin drinks up the benefits.

6. Experiment with new hairstyles or haircuts

Fresh breakup, fresh ‘do! Take the plunge and switch up your hairstyle with a chic cut, bold color, or playful hair accessories.

Yes, this is one of those things that everyone does to glow up after a breakup, but this really works.

Whether you opt for sleek and sophisticated or wild and whimsical, let your hair be a reflection of your newfound freedom and confidence.

7. Update your wardrobe

Out with the old, in with the fabulous! Treat yourself to a wardrobe overhaul with clothes that make you feel like a million bucks.

From statement pieces to timeless classics, curate a collection that screams, “I’m single and thriving!”

8. Practice good hygiene habits

Embrace the power of self-care with daily hygiene rituals that leave you feeling fresh and fabulous.

From brushing and flossing to showering and grooming, prioritize your personal hygiene like the queen that you are.

9. Consider spa treatments

Indulge in some well-deserved pampering with a trip to the spa.

From massages to facials to mani-pedis, spoil yourself rotten and emerge feeling like royalty. After all, a little self-love goes a long way in the glow-up game.

10. Try out new makeup looks

Channel your inner makeup artist and experiment with bold new looks that showcase your unique beauty.

Whether you’re into sultry, smoky eyes, vibrant lip colors, or flawless contouring, let your makeup be an expression of your newfound confidence and creativity.

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11. Practice good posture

Stand tall and proud! Correct posture not only exudes confidence but also contributes to a more flattering silhouette.

So, roll those shoulders back, lift that chin, and strut your stuff like the fierce goddess you are.

12. Incorporate relaxation techniques

Say goodbye to stress and hello to serenity with relaxation practices like yoga or tai chi.

These mindful exercises not only help you unwind but also promote inner peace and emotional well-being. Take a deep breath, find your center, and let go of any lingering breakup blues.

13. Invest in quality skincare products

Treat yourself to a little luxury with skincare products tailored to your unique needs.

Whether it’s a decadent moisturizer, a rejuvenating serum, or a soothing face mask, splurge on high-quality goodies that leave your skin feeling pampered and radiant.

14. Dental check-ups and oral hygiene

Flash those pearly whites with confidence by maintaining excellent dental hygiene.

Schedule regular check-ups, brush and floss diligently, and dazzle the world with your megawatt smile. After all, nothing says “I’m thriving” like a radiant grin!

15. Explore new fitness activities

Break out of your workout rut and discover exhilarating new ways to get your sweat on.

Whether it’s salsa dancing, kickboxing, or rock climbing, find a fitness activity that gets your heart pumping and your endorphins flowing.

Who knows? You might just stumble upon your new favorite hobby!

16. Treat yourself to a makeover

Are you ready for a dramatic transformation? Treat yourself to a full-blown makeover or professional photoshoot and unleash your inner bombshell.

From glamorous hair and makeup to striking outfits and killer poses, let your beauty shine bright for the world to see.

17. Revamp your living space

Create a sanctuary for yourself by revamping your living space and surrounding yourself with elements that bring you joy and comfort.

Whether it’s adding cozy blankets and throw pillows, incorporating soothing scents with candles or diffusers, or rearranging your furniture to create a more functional layout, make your home a reflection of your personal style and a sanctuary for self-care and relaxation.

18. Practice mindful eating

Cultivate a healthy relationship with food by practicing mindful eating habits that nourish your body and soul.

Pay attention to hunger cues, savor each bite, and choose foods that make you feel energized and satisfied.

By tuning into your body’s needs and honoring your hunger and fullness signals, you can foster a positive and intuitive approach to eating that supports your physical and emotional well-being.

19. Get creative with fashion

Express your unique sense of style by getting creative with fashion and experimenting with different looks and trends.

Whether it’s mixing and matching bold patterns, playing with textures and accessories, or embracing statement pieces that reflect your personality, have fun expressing yourself through your clothing choices and embracing your individuality.

20. Embrace your natural beauty

Celebrate your natural beauty by embracing your unique features and quirks.

Whether it’s freckles, scars, or curves, recognize that these are all part of what makes you beautifully you.

Instead of striving for perfection, focus on enhancing your natural beauty and radiating confidence from within.

21. Set realistic goals

Set realistic and achievable goals for your physical glow-up journey, whether it’s improving your fitness level, adopting healthier eating habits, or simply taking better care of your skin and hair.

By setting clear intentions and taking small, consistent steps towards your goals, you can make meaningful progress and experience tangible results over time.

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Post break-up mental glow up

1. Practice self-love and self-compassion

Shower yourself with an abundance of love and compassion as you navigate through the aftermath of a breakup.

Embrace every part of who you are, flaws and all, and treat yourself with the kindness and understanding you deserve.

Remember, you are worthy of love, especially from yourself.

2. Engage in therapy or counseling if needed

Break free from the weight of emotional baggage by seeking professional guidance through therapy or counseling.

This is among my favorite things to do to glow up after a breakup. Why?

Because a trained therapist can provide valuable insights, support, and coping mechanisms to help you process your feelings and move forward with clarity and strength.

3. Develop hobbies and interests outside of the relationship

Rediscover the joy of pursuing activities that light up your soul and ignite your passions.

Whether it’s painting, hiking, or learning a new instrument, investing time in hobbies outside of the relationship allows you to reconnect with your individuality and reclaim your sense of self.

4. Cultivate a positive mindset

Harness the power of positive thinking by incorporating affirmations and gratitude journaling into your daily routine.

Start each day with words of encouragement and appreciation for the blessings in your life, and watch as your outlook shifts towards one filled with hope and optimism.

5. Surround yourself with supportive friends and family

Lean on the unwavering support of friends and family who uplift and empower you during this challenging time.

Surround yourself with people who genuinely care about your well-being and provide a safe space for you to express yourself authentically without judgment or criticism.

6. Set boundaries to protect your emotional well-being

Safeguard your emotional well-being by establishing clear boundaries in your relationships and interactions with others.

Learn to prioritize your needs and communicate your limits assertively, ensuring that your mental health remains a top priority as you navigate through the ups and downs of post-breakup life.

7. Learn to let go of resentment and forgive yourself and your ex-partner

Release yourself from the burden of resentment and anger by practicing forgiveness towards yourself and your ex-partner.

Understand that holding onto grudges only weighs you down, and choose instead to let go of the past and embrace a future filled with healing and inner peace.

8. Explore mindfulness and meditation practices

Cultivate a deeper sense of inner peace through mindfulness and meditation practices.

Take time each day to quiet your mind, focus on your breath, and cultivate a sense of presence and awareness in the present moment.

Let go of worries about the past or future and find solace in the beauty of the here and now.

9. Redirect your energy into productive activities or creative outlets

Channel your emotions and energy into productive pursuits and creative outlets that inspire and fulfill you.

Whether it’s starting a new project, volunteering in your community, or pursuing a passion project, find constructive ways to channel your energy and creativity into activities that bring you joy and fulfillment.

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10. Read self-help books or listen to podcasts

This is an important one to consider if you want to glow up after a breakup.

Expand your knowledge and gain valuable insights into personal growth and development by immersing yourself in self-help literature or tuning into motivational podcasts.

Seek out resources that resonate with your interests and goals, and let the wisdom of experts guide and inspire you on your journey of self-discovery.

11. Volunteer or engage in acts of kindness

Experience the profound joy of giving back to others and making a positive impact in your community by volunteering your time and talents to worthy causes.

Whether it’s lending a helping hand to those in need or performing random acts of kindness for strangers, find fulfillment in spreading love and positivity wherever you go.

12. Create a vision board to manifest your goals and dreams

Harness the power of visualization by creating a vision board that captures your dreams and aspirations for the future.

Fill your board with images, quotes, and affirmations that inspire and motivate you to pursue your goals with passion and determination.

13. Write down your thoughts and feelings in a journal to process emotions

Give voice to your innermost thoughts and feelings by writing them down in a journal.

Use this sacred space to process your emotions, gain clarity and perspective, and document your journey of growth and self-discovery.

14. Seek out inspirational role models or mentors for guidance

Surround yourself with positive influences, and seek out inspirational role models or mentors who embody the qualities and values you aspire to cultivate in yourself.

Learn from their wisdom, experience, and guidance as you navigate through the challenges and opportunities of post-breakup life.

15. Attend workshops or seminars to learn new skills

Expand your horizons and broaden your perspective by attending workshops or seminars that offer opportunities for learning and growth.

Seize every chance to acquire new knowledge and insights that empower you to thrive.

16. Spend time in nature to recharge and gain clarity

Connect with the healing power of nature by spending time outdoors and immersing yourself in the beauty of the natural world.

Take leisurely walks in the park, go hiking in the mountains, or simply sit and meditate by a calm lake.

Let the sights, sounds, and sensations of nature to rejuvenate your spirit and provide clarity and perspective during challenging times.

17. Practice assertiveness in communication to express your needs

Advocate for your needs and assert your boundaries with confidence and clarity in your interactions with others.

Learn to express yourself assertively, without aggression or passivity, and assert your right to be treated with respect and dignity in all your relationships.

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Why do breakups hurt so much?

Attachment

Over time, we form deep emotional attachments to our partners, creating bonds based on love, trust, and shared experiences.

When a relationship ends, the loss of this attachment can feel like a profound emotional blow.

Identity and self-worth

Relationships play a significant role in shaping our sense of identity and self-worth.

The dissolution of a relationship can lead to feelings of insecurity, self-doubt, and questioning of one’s value and worthiness of love.

Loss of future plans

Many couples make plans and envision a future together, whether it’s moving in together, getting married, or starting a family.

When a breakup occurs, these dreams and aspirations may shatter, leading to a sense of disorientation and uncertainty about the future.

Social support and belongingness

Relationships provide social support and a sense of belongingness, as partners often share intimate thoughts, feelings, and experiences with each other.

The loss of this connection can leave people feeling isolated and lonely.

Change and uncertainty

Breakups represent a significant life change, disrupting established routines, habits, and social dynamics.

Adjusting to this change and facing an uncertain future can be daunting and anxiety-inducing.

Unresolved emotions and closure

Closure is essential for emotional healing after a breakup, but it’s not always easy to achieve.

Unresolved feelings, unanswered questions, and lingering attachments can prolong the pain of a breakup and make it challenging to move on.

Fear of being alone

The prospect of being single again and facing life without a partner can trigger feelings of fear, vulnerability, and apprehension about the unknown.

Social stigma and judgment

Society often places a stigma on being single or experiencing a breakup, leading people to internalize feelings of shame, failure, or inadequacy.

Physical symptoms

Breakups can manifest not only as emotional pain but also as physical symptoms such as insomnia, loss of appetite, fatigue, and even physical aches and pains.

Comparisons and rumination

It’s common for people to compare themselves to their ex-partners or dwell on past memories, leading to feelings of jealousy, regret, and sadness.

How do you glow up after a breakup?