4 Ways for Caregivers to Prioritize Self-Care
1. Eat a healthy diet
An article published by Senior Helpers underscores the importance of a healthy diet, not just for your physical health, but your emotional health as well. In the short term, enjoying a diet of nutritious and well-balanced meals can help to increase energy and reduce sluggishness, while in the long-term, eating well can reduce the risk of cancer and heart disease.
2. get enough sleep
Sleep deprivation can wreak havoc on your mental health and cause a ripple effect of negative emotions and thoughts. Your body needs seven to eight hours of restorative sleep each night for optimal health. Try implementing a predictable and regular bedtime routine to coax your body into a relaxing slumber, including limiting mobile devices or tablets two hours before bed, sleeping in a cool, dark room, and wearing comfortable pajamas.
3. get regular exercise
According to the FCA, exercise “promotes better sleep, reduces depression and tension, and increases alertness and energy.” Although finding the motivation and time to exercise, especially in the beginning, may be a struggle, small steps will add up. Try walking for 20 minutes a day, three days a week to experience the full benefits of exercise.
4. make time for hobbies
Taking a break from caregiving to reinvest in activities and hobbies you enjoy will help to reinvigorate you and remind you of who you are, outside of being a caregiver. Accepting help from family, friends, and professionals to reinvest in yourself may be difficult, but the reward of getting reacquainted with yourself and rediscovering what brings you happiness and peace will allow you to be the best caregiver you can be.
A Place For Mom
By : Kimberly Fowler
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