Ex-Spouses of Narcissists-Reclaiming Your Sense of Well Being

The aftermath of divorcing a narcissist is complex. Many spouses have spent years, on the front lines of the narcissistic marriage wars. On the surface, everyone saw the perfect couple. In private the scenes of life with a narcissistic spouse are stressful, exhausting and anxiety provoking. Marriage to a narcissist takes its toll on the partner. Many clients have told me about chronic anxiety, insomnia, intestinal upsets, headaches, sapping of physical and creative energy and depressive reactions. The spouses of the narcissist is always embattled. (often without realizing that he or she is constantly in the middle of a psychological and emotional siege.) 

When the divorce is final, the real work of healing begins. This is a process not measured in days or weeks but rather occurs moment by moment. The first step starts with a commitment to self healing. It is time for self care, meaning a respect for oneself that focuses on your emotional, physical and psychological well being. Find a form of exercise that works for you. If you are walking, begin with small time increments--five minutes, ten minutes. Be aware of your physical limitations. Some individuals start with gentle stretching movements that free the body from stiffness and stress. Set up a time each day for being with yourself in a quiet uninterrupted setting. Five minutes will work. Choose how you want to create moments of peace for yourself---where you don't have to go anywhere or fulfill any obligations to others. This can take many forms: inspirational reading, favorite calming music,chanting, relaxation through breathing techniques,brief meditation, gentle yoga poses. Maintain contact with a few individuals who are worthy of your trust. It doesn't take a group. It begins with one empathic person who cares deeply about you.  It is worth taking the time to build these relationships. It make take a lot of searching but the rewards of authentic friendship are limitless. Above all, be patient, unjudgmental and kind to yourself. Visit my website:www.thenarcissistinyourlife.com

 

Linda Martinez-Lewi, Ph.D.

Telephone Consultation

Email: lmlphd@thenarcissistinyourlife.com

 

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