I practice what I call "extreme self care". Since when depressed, sad, lost...I tend to forget about me, I have to force myself to do what other people seem to do with no effort.
Good personal care: eat, drink, bathe
Socialize with platonic friends, force feed good spiritual principles, help others. Participate in group activities.
Typically when a relationship ends my self esteem has been damaged. I need outside confirmations that I am still absolutely wonderful. In fact, it's a team effort.
I am not a proponent of taking time to heal. It is my personal belief that healing is an independent action and will happen with or without me.
The thing about dating is it makes you appreciate what you had or thank God he delivered you. Either way it is eye opening.
If nothing else dating provides a valid reason to go shopping.
Join an online dating community. Meet people, have mind numbing conversation, get complimented just do what comes naturally to most of us.
feel free to add some of your own things from male, female, and nongender specific mindsets.