Finding Strength on the Fairway - How golf helped me heal after divorce

When my second husband left me, I was devastated. The sadness and grief were overwhelming, and I struggled to find a way to cope. That’s when I discovered golf.

Being outside in the fresh air, in beautiful surroundings, a long walk focussed on that small white ball was like a meditation. It wasn’t just a distraction, it was a path to healing.

Golf offers physical activity and mental concentration which can be incredibly therapeutic during tough times. Playing golf, often on my own at that time, gave me space from my young daughters, and time to think, even if just for a few hours. I remember my first few rounds, the first 9 holes were often filled with tears, but by the time I reached the 18th hole, I felt a great sense of empowerment.

It became obsessive!

I am luck to work for myself, so I’d leave the girls at school and head to my club. Often alone, I’d just head out and let all the ‘noise’ flow through my mind. Often this would bring me to tears, but I realised that the exercise was stopping the anxiety because it was using the adrenaline in a different way.
Quickly, due to the exercise, I lost weight. I started to look great, and therefore feel great. Soon, instead of feeling bereft I started to think my ex-husband had made a big mistake! I started to play in mixed comps, join the champagne roll up and began to find an amazing new social life!

Take it from me, Golf is a great source of support for a woman going through divorce!

Why Golf is great for healing.

Fresh Air and Nature: There’s something inherently soothing about being surrounded by nature. The greenery, the birds, the open sky – such a contrast to stifling grief!

Physical Exercise: Walking the course, swinging the club, strengthening the core are all excellent! Physical activity releases those amazing endorphins, which are natural hormones to lift your mood. PLUS it helps stave off stress and anxiety!.

Mental Focus: Golf requires concentration, determination, tenacity and strategic thinking. When you’re focussed on your swing, your stance the next shot, there is little room for invasive thoughts of sadness.

Community: Joining your local club or participating in local tournaments can introduce you to a supportive community. New people, make friends, and a calendar of amazing social events. What’s not to love. Who knows you might meet a new partner!