CARING FOR YOURSELF

I remember when someone first suggested to me that I needed to use some of my time and energy to take care of myself.  As a matter of fact, it was more than one person.  Even my mother’s doctor recommended that I care for myself as well as I was caring for my mother.  In his charming way, he said that it was obvious that I was taking excellent care of my mother.  Despite, the Alzheimer’s she was doing very well, otherwise.  Me, not so much.

After hearing others’ concerns over and over again, it finally sank in.  I needed to take care of myself.  I thought that I was.  Ok, I accepted that they may have a point.  But how would I do that?  When would I have the time?  It was taking all I could muster to take care of my mother and family on any given day.  I remember feeling that that was just another thing to put on my ever-growing to-do list.

Have you thought about your self-care?  Do you feel that it is a luxury that you just cannot afford right now?  Can you imagine what self-care would look like for you?  It may feel like you don’t have the time or energy to participate in self-care.  Please remember that it is vitally necessary for your health and endurance as a primary family caregiver. 

Caring for yourself every day must become a priority.  Caring for yourself must be intentional.  Caring for yourself must be a non-negotiable part of your life, now.  Caring for yourself will allow you to readily embrace the moments of joy as well as the relentless challenges of caregiving.  It will help you to be an even better caregiver.   Caring for yourself will help you to be able to endure and not burn out from sheer exhaustion.  Plan what you are going to do every day as an intentional act of self-care.  You may consider some ideas for caring for yourself in the following suggestions to add to your own ideas.

Eating healthy, nutritious meals and snacks.  If you are a constant snacker or emotional eater, try to make sure that you have more healthy food items and snacks to choose from rather than unhealthy ones.

Stay hydrated.  Drink lots of water throughout the day.  Switch it up with sparkling waters, flavored waters, etc.

Do some type of physical exercise even if its just stretches or walking in the house.

Take a long, hot bubble bath or hot shower with essential oils.

Take a nap.

Prayer and/or meditation.

Sit quietly for 10 minutes, deep breathing, while not thinking.

Watch a funny TV show or movie.  Laugh!

Read a good book; even if only one chapter.

Go to the park.

Get a manicure/pedicure.

Get a massage.

If possible, go on a mini-vacation or even a stay-cation as often as you can.

Some of your self-care ideas may require some assistance from friends/family to give you a break.  Ask them in plenty enough time and explain that this is very important to you and your loved one.  Your self-care will enrich the lives of you and your loved one. Take good care.