How do I make time for myself? By Jo Cavanaugh
Every caregiver hears, "Take care of yourself.", but it is rare to hear how to do that when you have so many responsibilities, little sleep, and no time. Take small steps to increase the time you have to recharge and maintain your balance.
Each day take a few minutes to enjoy something that has special meaning for you. Sit with a warm cup of tea or coffee and watch the birds on the lawn. Sit in your garden and watch the bees buzz lazily around the plants. Write a quick note to a friend or compose poetry. Read a favorite poem or scripture. Do what makes your heart sing. Make a promise to yourself that you will do something each day that is just for you.
Start a Gratitude Journal. Each day, possibly right before bed, write down something that you appreciate. Maybe you start with the fact that you have a strong body, or a great smile, but it is a start. Each time you write in your journal you are aware of your blessings. Every time you focus on your blessings, you are opening to allow new blessings in your life.
Become a child again. Remember what you did with passion and wild abandon as a child. Did you enjoy coloring and art? Did you have a favorite game? Were there songs that you sang until you were asked to stop? Remember your abandon and bring some of it back into your life.
Take a break. Friends and family want to help you, just ask. Arrange for a sitting service to give you time to do what you need to recharge. Is it a walk in the park, lunch with a friend, a movie or museum trip? How about a massage or facial or a trip to the spa? Allow your self the time. As the caregiver you need care and attention too! Take care of yourself and you will be better able to take care of your loveones.
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