Asdrubal luna / Unsplash

Breaking up with a toxic person can sometimes feel like your world has crumbled in on itself. While you will eventually feel free from their clutches, it takes a while to get there.

Because of something called trauma bonding, abusive relationships can be incredibly hard to leave. Over time the abuser — especially if they are a narcissist — will have made you feel like you can't live without them.

But you will eventually realise how much better off you are without them in your life, and will be better equipped for relationships in the future.

During the toxic relationship, you probably forgot to take care of yourself. David Brudö, CEO and cofounder of the mental well-being and personal development app Remente, told Business Insider there are several ways to practise self-love after a bad relationship has ended.

These can also be applied to any break-up, not just the end of a relationship with an abuser. Here they are:

1. Learn to let go

"Easier said than done but learning to let go is one of the most important steps to take if you want to relieve yourself of a toxic relationship," Brudö said. "Accept that everyone makes mistakes and that they are in the past, and only take away what you learnt from the situation."

It'll be difficult at first, he added, but the more you practise, the easier it will become.

2. Have some "me" time

It's more important than ever to do the things you enjoy doing. Brudö said it's the perfect time to take up a new hobby, or complete that project you just didn't get around to doing.

"Set aside a couple of evenings a week to do something you truly enjoy outside of work, as that will drastically decrease your stress levels and help keep your spirits high," he said.

3. Take control

Once you've taken enough time to get your feelings under control, you can channel your energy into something else.

"Whenever we feel strongly about a situation outside of our influence, it can be hugely empowering to take charge of something that is entirely under our control," Brudö said. "It can be anything from a new project at work, to prepping your meals for the week ahead. Seeing something you do make a difference can go a long way in preventing you from feeling angry and frustrated."

4. Minimise your bad habits

Although it might be tempting, try to avoid turning to drinking, smoking, or other unhealthy habits. It may feel like escaping in the short term, but you won't thank yourself in the long run.