Are you the family caregiver? There are many positive and rewarding aspects that can experience from becoming the family caregiver. It is easy to plunge deep into your caregiving responsibilities, making you forget to look after the most important person in your life – YOU.

Self-care always comes first. How you treat yourself will ultimately reflect how you treat others. Taking time to understand your needs, addressing them, and finding personal satisfaction are important aspects of your overall wellness.

However, many caregivers often feel guilty for prioritizing themselves. If you feel this way too, make the mental shift of considering self-care not as a luxury, but a necessity. There are days when getting out of bed is a challenge. Sometimes, your anxieties rock you to your core. It is during these moments when self-care becomes your strength to come through.

While all caregiving experiences are unique, we’ve recognized that most stresses and frustrations stem from a single, common source: Lack of self-care practices.
Taking a break and having your “me time” is essential towards becoming your best selves. Adding self-care into your daily list of to-dos boosts your productivity, reduces stress, and inspires more room for positivity in your life.

Intrinsic Home Care, Inc., a provider of companion care in Illinois, has curated tips to heal and love yourself:

1. Recognize small accomplishments
   Daily successes don’t always come from completing a to-do list. Learn to acknowledge even those small accomplishments like waking up early, doing an errand, or enjoying a good talk with your beloved.
2. De-clutter your room
   Messy rooms can make you feel more stressed. Isn’t it nice to retreat from a tough day in a cozy space? Tidy your room and make it more comfortable. Design it to your liking!
3. Indulge in meals without getting distracted
   How often do you multitask while eating your meals? Slow down, pay attention to the food you’re eating, and enjoy every bite.
4. Get moving
   Exercise makes you feel good. When you get yourself moving, your endorphins (a.k.a. “the happy hormones”) are released, increasing your feelings of happiness.
5. Reflect upon your present blessings
   Keep a journal and write down all the things you’re grateful for. Everything from having a loving family to enjoying the fresh linens is worth noting. When the going gets tough, count your blessings. Gratitude changes everything.
6. Read a good book
   Good books are outlets for creativity, knowledge, and peace of mind. There’s a wonderful feeling linked to reading a good story and picking valuable lessons from it. If you’re a reader, let us know your most recommended book/s in the comments!

It’s essential to show kindness to others, but how often do you give the same level of kindness to yourself?

Take a Break from Your Caregiving Duties to Focus on Your Healing

Intrinsic Home Care, Inc. offers personal care in Indiana and other home care services. Contact us for more details.

Pass on your peace and positivity by sharing this post with a loved one.