How to HEAL HURT

We wouldn't be human if we didn't feel sadness at some points in our lives, but learning to let go will open the door to a brighter future

Every life contains pain, loss and times when our heart aches. But that doesn't mean we can't try to heal these wounds. Therapist and author Donna Lancaster believes that to be fully happy in the present, it's vital to work on healing our past heartbreak.

'When we don't allow the time and space to feel our sadness, anger and fears - our grief about our past - then it never really leaves us. It defines our present,' she explains. So how do we work through the effects of these tough times, draw strength from them and start to live life to the full? Here are some tips on how to begin.

1 SHARE YOUR STORY

Donna recommends starting by acknowledging the hurt and loss in your life so far. This is tough but important because, 'If we don't actively address past heartbreaks, our life force can become blocked and life feels heavy, like we're wading through treacle.' DO IT: MAP YOUR HEARTBREAK On a sheet of paper, write a timeline of the age you were when any significant hurts or losses happened. Everyday upsets can wound us deeply, so if it feels important, write it down. Think about how these past events have impacted on your life as you record them.

2 BECOME YOUR OWN BEST FRIEND