Being a family carer can give you a lot of pride, especially if you’re giving your loved one the care they need to continue living at home. However, it can also be tiring. Busy schedules and a never-ending list of things to do can drain your energy. Sometimes, family carers simply need a break. After all, we can’t be good to others unless we’re first good to ourselves. Here are 5 things that family carers can do to relax after a long, hard day.
1. Exercise
Getting some exercise is a great way to deal with stress. It’s a form of meditation, so it can help you clear your mind. As a family carer, you probably have a long list of things you need to remember for both your job and your personal life.
One of the easiest ways to clear your mind of daily stresses is to move your body, like by going for a walk. Moving is a great way to relax at the end of a busy day, whether you like to take a slow stroll or like to run.
2. Take It Easy
After running errands for yourself and a loved one for most of the day, it’s best to take it easy to give your body a much-needed break.
Being still can help you relax your muscles, lower your blood pressure, and concentrate.
To help you unwind, you can immerse yourself in a book, chat with a friend, watch a funny movie, or pamper yourself in a hot bath or shower to wash away all the tension.
Music is also an excellent tool for reducing caregiver stress. Listen to a song that lifts your spirit and transports you to a happy place. Play your favorite instrument –there are plenty of online videos if you want to teach yourself how to play.
Alternatively, you could spend time with your pet. Chat with your dog or even just stare at your fish aquarium. Spending time with animals is a proven stress reliever and mood lifter.
3. Try Relaxation Techniques
Meditation and yoga can help you clear your mind and feel less stressed. Visualisation and deep breathing can help reduce the stress you feel from being a carer and put you in a calm state of mind and body. You can choose to meditate on your own or listen to a guided meditation. You can get rid of tension in your body, improve your posture, and get stronger by following a yoga video or going to a yoga class in your area.
4. Lean On Your Friends
Getting away from your worries is easiest when you’re with friends. Not only will it help you relax, but you can also get advice or talk about how your day went. Also, leaving the house and doing something fun can make you feel better. Call an old friend who lives close by and see if they want to get together for coffee. If you’re feeling brave, try joining an online community for carers to meet new people.
5. Ask for Help
As a family caregiver, you should know when to ask for help. While you may have a strong passion or willpower to handle multiple tasks, it’s okay to ask for help when overwhelmed. In fact, it may be the best way to help your loved ones.
Set a limit on what you’re able to handle physically and emotionally. Speak with family members and other caregivers about your need to take a break from your caregiving duties. Ensure you check in with therapists and other medical professionals to help you manage your stress and mental health.
Respite Care Helps Family Carers to Recharge
As a family carer, there are times when you need to relax and free up your mind. My Care Solution is the trusted provider of in-home respite care to help family carers take scheduled breaks to restore their energy, tend to their own needs, retain their interests and hobbies, and maintain their wellbeing. Contact us to learn more about our services.
