Dear DaveF:

Good to read back from you almost a month after you posted last, during the record breaking heat wave I experienced at the time. I am glad to report that we didn’t experience a heat wave since, and as I am typing to you this morning, I am wearing two layers of long-sleeve clothing, instead of holding ice packs against my body to cool off.

You shared that your ex is about to move out within a week, and after she moves out you will continue to live in the same place for a few more weeks, on your own. Also, you still “know that breaking up is the right thing to do”, but you are “feeling a bit emotional and nostalgic”, and “stress of trying to buy this new house and of moving out…  a little anxious sometimes… the sense of disquiet doesn’t seem to leave for the moment”-

– this is a crucial week, the week before her leaving. Reads like you’ve done well so far with the anticipated separation, but being so close to the actual, practical physical separation, your anxiety regarding the breakup and the soon to be completed separation, is likely to increase. It is important that you don’t lose your cool when this happens, and then say and do things that you will later regret.

Therefore, it is important that during this week, you will practice more of what worked for you before, such as the visualization you mentioned, and “reading, meditating and running”. Also, because you have only a week or less before she moves out, if necessary, leave and stay elsewhere: if not with your friends, then in a hotel room.

You are welcome to post here anytime during this challenging week. I will read and reply to you every time you post.

anita