It takes a lot of dedication and compassion when caring for others. Sometimes caring for yourself takes a back seat when experiencing stress, anxiety, and a packed schedule. Whether you are a caregiver or part of a care team, it’s paramount that self-care is in mind. Taking even a few moments out of the day to care for ourselves is often forgotten throughout our busy lives. Let’s look at a few self-care tips that we can work into our routines.
Breathe
It’s important to realize when you are flustered or overwhelmed so you can take action to slow down. Hit the pause button, regroup, close your eyes, and take a deep breath. Spend a minute to gather your thoughts, and sip some water or a favorite beverage to hydrate before getting back to your next task. If you have the time go for a walk for a change of scenery and peace.
Self-Care Routine
Before you can care for others you need to care for yourself. There is nothing to feel guilty about by having our own basic needs met. Access your own situation that you can control to diagnose if you are getting enough sleep, exercise, nutrition, entertainment, and meeting your personal goals. Celebrate your accomplishment by treating yourself to a good meal or special activity.
Find Your Fun
This may sound silly but what do you really enjoy doing? Whether it’s arts, sports, games, books, movies, or music think about what you enjoy doing the most. See how you can take time to do what you enjoy and try new things if you need to mix it up.
Phone a Friend
Catch up with an old friend, family member, or someone you enjoy talking to. Sometimes a different perspective, a small piece of advice, or just talking about fun topics can help get us through our days. Many messaging apps have voice messaging, live audio calls, and video options you can use to communicate in different ways.
Consider these self-care tips as a starting point and continue to brainstorm how you can work things into your own routine. Find what works best for you even if it is small steps at a time. Encourage yourself and your loved ones to care for yourselves so that you can be your best to care for others.
Resources:
Breathing Exercises
https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/wellness/breathing-exercises
Sleep
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/sleep/art-20048379
Nutrition & Wellness
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/27-health-and-nutrition-tips#TOC_TITLE_HDR_15