As rewarding as caregiving can be, it can also be an incredibly demanding role to play. It’s easy for caregivers to focus so much on making sure their loved one is receiving the best care possible that they neglect their own well-being. Neglecting your needs as a caregiver can not only lead to low energy, reduced ability to cope with stress, and possible health issues, but it can play into caregiver burnout. Learn how to take care of yourself, so you can take care of others.
Self-Care for Caregivers: Your Physical Well-Being
Eating well, moving your body, getting enough rest, and taking care of your health are essential not only to have enough strength and energy to care for your loved one but because you deserve care as well! Often one of the best things you can do for yourself, especially in times of stress or increased responsibility, is to carve time out of your day to take care of yourself.
Eat a healthy diet.
Make sure you’re getting plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. The key here is finding a way to do it that works for you. Maybe it means buying pre-cut vegetables at the grocery store and plenty of fruit that you can grab when you’re on the go. Maybe it looks like setting a day aside for meal planning so you have good, nourishing food all week without having to cook every day.
Stay hydrated.
Dehydration can lead to fatigue, headaches, an inability to focus, and digestive problems. Keep a reusable water bottle around so you can sip as you go about your day. Not a fan of plain water? Add a squeeze of lemon or lime juice for added flavor, or sip herbal tea.
Move your body.
You might not have the time, energy, or desire to spend an hour working out. And that’s okay! Try to get around 30 minutes of activity a day, even if you have to do it in two or three shorter sessions. Walking around the block, pedaling for 15 minutes on a stationary bike, taking a swim, or dancing around your living room will get your heart pumping and also help you burn off some stress, which is something every caregiver needs from time to time.
Prioritize rest.
It might not always be possible, but try to get seven to eight hours of sleep as often as you can. The mental, physical, and emotional strain of being a caregiver can take a toll, and getting adequate sleep makes you better able to recover.
Mental and Emotional Self-Care for Caregivers
In addition to taking care of your physical health, your emotional and mental health deserve some attention, too. It’s easy to overlook your emotional health, but it’s important both for your well-being and so you can continue to care for your loved one without feeling burnt out. That saying that “you can’t draw from an empty well” applies here.
Try these caregiver self-care tips for better mental and emotional health:
- Focus on gratitude.
- Find and lean on your support system when you need to.
- Practice relaxation techniques like meditation, gentle yoga, or mindfulness.
- Take time for yourself to do things you enjoy, including hobbies, time with friends, and nights out.
- Journal to process your feelings.
- Seek professional help when you need it.
Lean on the Professionals at Homewatch CareGivers
Caregiving can be a rewarding, yet challenging role for anyone. You don’t have to do it alone. The caregivers at Homewatch CareGivers can provide in-home respite care so you can rest and take some time for the self-care you deserve. Find a location near you or call 888-404-5191 today.
