As a caregiver, you may have heard the term “self-care” mentioned quite a bit. It’s an important topic for caregivers—one many don’t know enough about. Below are some top self-care tips for you and your loved one. Thanks to Beverly Nelson of Stand Up for Caregivers for this practical and important information. https://standupforcaregivers.org
Find Time for Yourself
Your own mental, emotional, and physical health are also important when caring for others. Whether it’s taking a break from work or visiting with friends, making time for yourself can lift your mood.
Find time to take a vacation at least once a year. This will recharge and re-energize you which will also enable you to be a better caregiver. When on vacation, try to not worry too much about how much money you spend and if you have a dessert or two. The less stressed you feel, the more you’ll enjoy your well-deserved break.
Get Some Exercise
Benefits to regular exercise include improving mood and reducing stress, increasing self-esteem, and improving feelings of connection with friends and family. Exercise can also relieve symptoms of depression and anxiety and even help you live a longer, healthier life.
Get the Benefits of Sleep
Sleep is one of the most important things you can do for yourself as a caregiver. It’s restorative, rejuvenating, and mood-enhancing. It’s also essential in enabling you to take care of family members, friends, and colleagues—to give them the support they need when they need it. Good sleep habits ensure you’re less likely to experience depression and anxiety so you function better at work and home.
Eat a Nutritious Diet
Being a caregiver can be rewarding, but it can also be stressful. It can be hard to find the time and energy to take care of yourself. Many people find it helpful to eat nutritious foods, such as fresh fruits and vegetables. Eating healthy can help improve your overall well-being.
Try Meditation or Yoga
While simple to practice, meditation and yoga can have a powerful impact on your mental health. Many online resources teach beginner techniques, or you could even try a meditation retreat. Both meditation and yoga offer several benefits, including:
- Improved mental clarity and calmness
- Reduced stress
- Improved relationships with others
- Help with anxiety and depression
- Sharpened concentration
- Better sleep
- Improved mood
Find a Hobby You Both Enjoy
Find a pastime you both enjoy doing together. Whether it’s a board game or a long walk along the beach, choose a hobby that makes you happy and invite your companion along. Some activities you can do together might include:
- Cooking a new recipe
- Visiting the local farmers market
- Going shopping
- Playing golf
- Making a photo album
- Having a movie night with popcorn
- Visiting the library
Hire a Home Service for Help
Many small businesses offer affordable services that can free up your time for self-care. These may include lawn mowing, landscaping, or home cleaning. No matter your needs, begin by looking for contractors who have good ratings and strong reviews from recent customers.
Improved Quality of Life
Caregivers are often overworked and stressed. Practicing self-care can benefit your mental and physical health as well as improve your quality of life.
NOTE:
You will find my book Parkinson’s: A Love Story with Dementia for Dessert on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/Parkinsons-Love-Story-Dementia-Dessert-ebook/dp/B07K4RLC2D/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1542135434&sr=8-1&keywords=Parkinson%27s+A+Love+Story+with+Dementia+for+Dessert&dpID=41xS3edPH0L&preST=_SY445_QL70_&dpSrc=srch Your feedback and reviews are most welcome.
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