Everyone deals with breakups in their own ways. Some people get drunk and go out, others lay in bed crying and shoving ice creams down their throats. Certain individuals just get angry, and then some ignore it. No matter what your method of choice is, just know this, it’s always going to hurt. You may be the type of person that reacts immediately or you can find yourself crying in a bar a month after because one little thing reminded you of your ex. The sting after a heartbreak will be devastating no matter how the ending played out. You spent so much time with the person, you knew everything about each other and all of sudden you feel like you are on your own rather than being a part of a pair.

My point is, everyone heals in their own ways and on their own clock. While this is true, there is one thing that most women can agree on and that’s the rebound stage. The rebound stage occurs when you find the next person who are going to open up to in a romantic way. While no one necessarily wants to be someone’s rebound, finding a rebound for yourself after a relationship can play a crucial part in your healing process and here is why:

1. You forget that you're lonely

Sure, your rebound won’t be exactly like your ex… which is probably a good thing. However, if you picked this person for the right reasons he or she will make sure you have a good time. Whether it’s something silly like Go Karting to get your mind off stuff or simply watching a movie together, he or she will be your form of companionship. You may find yourself laughing or being yourself for the first time in awhile and trust me, it’s a great feeling.

2. You can see what you may want in your next relationship

There are always qualities in your ex that you wish you could have changed a bit. Well with a rebound, you can see if they better match what you are looking for in a partner. You’re rebound may be more adventurous and daring and you may realize your last relationship didn’t include the excitement you had always wished for. Or maybe this new person makes you think of the world in a way that no one else ever had. Either way, someone’s new perspective could be just what you need to find your next true love.

3. A Kiss

To be kissed again is a feeling that can’t be replaced with endless pints of Ben and Jerry’s or sappy romantic comedies. No drunken night that you don’t remember the next day could take the place of one simple kiss. It may sound ridiculous but something as simple as one touch of the lips can make you feel like the most special person in the world again. I’m not saying that your broken heart will be instantly healed by bad hookups or kissing random strangers. I am talking about one simple kiss with a guy you like to be around. Because you see, a kiss from another person, especially when you don’t expect it, will remind you that when you open up to people they can always surprise you in the best way possible.

4. You’re not ready for a long, committed relationship yet

If your last breakup was somewhat recent and you're still upset, it’s not time to jump into something new. If you are even slightly considering a rebound and reading through this article, trust me you are not ready. Long-term, committed relationships do not just pop up out of the blue. They take time and patience and learning about a person until you are sure you want to be with them in a serious way. Rebounds can be innocent and fun, not a lot is expected out of them if you are honest that you are still working on healing from your past relationship.

5. Cuddling

It doesn’t matter if you’re a guy or a girl, someone who says they don’t miss cuddling with their ex is crazy. There are actually proven benefits from cuddling or simply feeling the touch of another person against your skin. Health benefits of cuddling include, the release of Oxytocin, a boost to your immune system, as well as a reduction of social anxiety. There’s just something about being next to a person again. Waking up to someone’s smile and arm around you, rather than an empty space. Having a rebound, even if your time together is short, will heal your mind, heart, and body.