Finished

• When the end of a relationship is near, tension tends to mount. The couple may not even fully realize yet that they are pulling apart. They simply are not connecting on the same level. Arguments may become more frequent or non-communication could create a wedge that continues to grow.
  
  This phase in the breakup is often the most difficult to handle from the roller coaster ride of arguing, growing distant and ultimately not being happy with each other.
  
  Even in this painful time, you can grow as a person. If he typically holds in his feelings, it provides a chance for him to learn to express himself in a positive manner.
  
  If she typically feels rejected by other people's opinions, this time can help her learn to appreciate herself without outside influences.
  
  Certainly the breakup is hard, but the time can be spent learning to set your own boundaries and discover who you are as an individual. Surprising, revealing insights will begin to appear. Allow this to evolve and guide your path.
  
  

Care for Yourself

• Sadness, depression and all of its associated self-destructive tendencies could prolong the healing process. Instead, take charge of caring for yourself in a proactive way.
  
  Find a yoga class or go for salsa lessons. Act on the desire to try painting that you squashed down years ago. Make lists and keep journals. Revelations of who you want to be will begin to come through your thoughts and the tiny spark of desires.
  
  Don't slip into the ice cream bucket or fast food bag because you are alone. Not taking care of your partner's needs anymore may allow extra time to pamper yourself a bit. A healthy diet, exercise and creative outlet will fill the empty spots while helping you grow as a person.
  
  If you fall into a bad spell of perhaps overeating, overdrinking or couch-potato living, don't beat yourself up for this. Treat yourself gently. However, don't allow these self-destructive traits to go on. Seek counseling when needed and allow yourself the time to adjust to the situation.
  
  

New You

• Accessorize the new you.
  
  Cells completely regenerate in the body every seven years. You are no longer who you were. But the possibility that stirs your heart is the possibility of who you will become.
  
  A relationship can be magical, but not if it is harmful to the soul. Consider the quote below about yourself. The right relationship lets you become who you were meant to be individually, while reflecting it as a couple.
  
  "Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It's not just in some of us; it's in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others." From "A Return To Love: Reflections on the Principles of a Course in Miracles" by Marianne Williamson.