I’m no longer an active carer but then and now, I realise how important it is to take care of yourself too. And it's doubly important for carers to take a time-out, as you are often especially under so many stresses and strains.
I have a little strategy I use to remind myself to take time out for me when life’s stressful and too busy, and I call it my ‘birdhouse in my soul’. And I base it on a very old song from the 80’s called ‘Build a little bird house in your soul’.
Whenever life’s getting on top of me I try to remember that there’s a little bird inside my birdhouse that needs to break free and sing and fly occasionally.
So my bird reminds me to try to take a few minutes’ time-out from stress whenever I can, doing something I enjoy. It doesn’t have to be something that takes long, just little moments that bring me pleasure. Maybe just a quick peek and sniff at the flowers in the garden, having a good laugh at anything remotely funny, listening to favourite music, (and even warbling along from time to time, though that can make others in my life stressed out)! Another favourite is throwing all caution to the wind and enjoying a 'full English' breakfast, or having one too many of my favourite biscuits with my coffee, and, especially stress-busting, is always listening to the dawn chorus whenever I’m awake early enough, or to a church choir or organ. When I’ve had my ‘fix’, my bird can return to its birdhouse, refreshed and more able to cope.
What pleasures, little or big, does anyone else have, to help de-stress and stay balanced?
I love listening to music and reading so try and do both as often as I can.
I also spend time with our daughter perhaps having a coffee out somewhere and we are lucky to have our grandchildren close by which is great.
Pete does ok mostly but I keep an eye on him and help when needed. It’s great when he’s keeping well but we never know what might happen from one day to the next.
I do have to remember to look after me. Take care all. Xxx 😘👍
So glad to have been a little bit of assistance. Don't you think that this site is so great to 'pop into', not only to remind us how many people are sharing the same challenges, but for comfort and help too?
Try and distance yourself from the caring regularly. When my hubby was able to be left, I used to go walking with friends. We had lots of laughs and I forgot the pressures of home.
Did not know about respite care until towards the end. Use it as often as you are able. Can arrange daily or weekly 'daycare' or a period away from home while you recuperate, or have a holiday.
Now, when I get too busy, and need a quiet day, I read a book, watch a series on TV on demand, or browse the Internet, looking for holiday packages or other items of interest.
Get out in the garden! Never knew how therapeutic weeding can be! You don't have to decide what to keep and what to throw out, and all looks tidy afterwards. Very satisfying!
All easily said when I am not in the thick of caring for a loved one! Make sure you ask for help, and look after yourself!
I think we've all decided that the garden is very therapeutic. And thanks for all your other suggestions and comments!
Hi Mydexter,
Thanks for your input. Caring is such a tough row to hoe. (But interesting how we have all identified the garden as the place to be). It's so good to have this forum to share ideas and ask advice of those who have actually walked or are walking the walk!
I find having a read of a book which is not serious and makes me smile. Terry Pratchett does it for me. That is if not in the garden.
Hi kernowdame,
Thanks for your input. Maybe I'll try some more Terry Pratchett. I've only read Hogfather for a book club session and I did enjoy it. I also liked Terry Pratchett as a character and admired the way in which he dealt with his own Alzheimer's challenge.
My son left the first one [I think "The colour of Magic"] lying around. It is very rare that I laugh out loud while reading. That got me hooked. He was a lovely man.
I get into the thriller authors. Lee Child, Quintin Jardine, Jeffrey Deaver, David Baldacci, Jo Nesbo. Get them online from library so they cost nothing from home.
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