Being responsible for the care of a family member or friend can be exhausting. If adequate attention isn't given to self care, can lead to compassion fatigue and burnout. So, what can caregivers do to care for themselves while they care for others? Despite the importance of self care, many people put their own needs on the back burner while caring for a loved one with cancer. Neglecting your own health, however, is not only harmful to you, but reduces your ability to be the best caregiver possible!
Remember, when your needs are taken care of, the person you care for will benefit, too. It is crucial that caregivers take steps to take care of themselves.
My top 5 things you should do for yourself as the caregiver:
1. Exercise. You may think that you don’t have the time or the energy to exercise every day, but the truth is that your body needs to move for at least ten minutes every day. Exercising for just 10 minutes a day will improve your physical health, energy levels, and mental health as well. The more movement you can include in your daily doings, the better the results are for your health and overall well-being.
2. Eat right. Ask friends to bring healthy & nutritious meals that you can freeze and heat up in the future. Eat fresh fruits & vegetables, add good fats into your diet, and stick with lean proteins. Increase your water intake, too.
3. Get sufficient sleep. Sleep is extremely important for the brain & body. While it’s important to get as much sleep as you can overnight, don’t miss out the opportunity of naps during the day. There is no denying the fact that caregiving can be very exhausting and in order to give good care you need to take naps when you can.
4. Visit Nature. Simply going outside can refresh you enough so that you can stay focused, calm and more centered. And if you are one of those caregivers who have pets around, try spending time with them regularly. Spending time with pets can do wonders for stress management and mental health.
5. Treat yourself. Everyone needs to recharge and take time out for themselves. This practice can help you get refreshed and rejuvenated, when you come back as a caregiver again.
Remember, when your needs are taken care of, the person you care for will benefit, too. It is crucial that caregivers take steps to take care of themselves.
My top 5 things you should do for yourself as the caregiver:
1. Exercise. You may think that you don’t have the time or the energy to exercise every day, but the truth is that your body needs to move for at least ten minutes every day. Exercising for just 10 minutes a day will improve your physical health, energy levels, and mental health as well. The more movement you can include in your daily doings, the better the results are for your health and overall well-being.
2. Eat right. Ask friends to bring healthy & nutritious meals that you can freeze and heat up in the future. Eat fresh fruits & vegetables, add good fats into your diet, and stick with lean proteins. Increase your water intake, too.
3. Get sufficient sleep. Sleep is extremely important for the brain & body. While it’s important to get as much sleep as you can overnight, don’t miss out the opportunity of naps during the day. There is no denying the fact that caregiving can be very exhausting and in order to give good care you need to take naps when you can.
4. Visit Nature. Simply going outside can refresh you enough so that you can stay focused, calm and more centered. And if you are one of those caregivers who have pets around, try spending time with them regularly. Spending time with pets can do wonders for stress management and mental health.
5. Treat yourself. Everyone needs to recharge and take time out for themselves. This practice can help you get refreshed and rejuvenated, when you come back as a caregiver again.
For more on caretaker tips as well as Darren's top tips for LIVING with cancer, fill this out to get our free downloadable eBook:
Your friend & coach,
Jen Delvaux
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