Strategies for Caregivers for Self-Care Awareness Month
September is Self-Care Awareness Month. This annual month-long observation aims to promote self-care, encourage us to care for ourselves, and take time to put ourselves first.
This can be easier said than done for in-home caregivers. These compassionate individuals are altruistic by nature and may have trouble putting their needs before everyone else. However, establishing a self-care routine is incredibly beneficial and promotes emotional and physical well-being. It can also improve client care.
Caregivers – Try These Self-Care Tips!
Here are five simple self-care tips caregivers can use to celebrate themselves this month and all year long.
1. Establish a Morning Ritual
Rituals are not routines. While routines are daily habits, like brushing your teeth or eating breakfast, rituals are more thoughtful and deliberate. A morning ritual can add magic to your morning and help you start the day on the right foot.
Some morning ritual ideas for caretakers to try are:
- Practicing gratitude
- Journaling
- Making a delicious cup of café-quality coffee
- Saying positive affirmations
- Meditating
2. Nourish Yourself from the Inside Out
We all have to eat. But that doesn’t mean that your meals can’t be nutritious and delicious. Eating a well-balanced diet is the foundation of self-care, and supports your overall health and well-being. Incorporate colorful fruits and veggies, lean protein, and healthy fats into your daily diet. Nutrient-dense foods fuel your body, allowing you to stay focused and energetic throughout the day. Farmers markets will be closing soon, but there are other places to get fresh produce throughout Bartlesville and nearby areas such as the Oklahoma Heritage Farm Country Store, The FARMacy Barn to Table Market, and the Early Bird Market.
3. Go Offline
We live in a digital world, making it hard to unplug. Yet switching off your devices and taking a break from social media gives you time to relax and recharge. You don’t have to go offline every day. Start with an hour or two per week. Stroll in nature, run a warm bath, or curl up with your favorite book instead.
4. Connect with Loved Ones
As humans, we inherently crave connection. An active social life promotes positivity and supports mental health. Make time to spend with your family and friends. You don’t even have to leave the house to enjoy the company of your loved ones. Host a dinner party or catch up on a Zoom call.
Want to make more meaningful connections? Consider volunteering for a cause you love or signing up for a class or workshop. This gives you the opportunity to meet like-minded people.
5. Make Time for Yourself
Don’t forget to make time for yourself, even if it’s just 20 minutes. Take yourself on a date to the movies, enjoy a wholesome meal, or treat yourself to a facial or massage at a spa like New Horizons Therapeutics or Ginger Bloom Spa. Carving out some “me-time” allows you to care for your loved ones and clients more efficiently.
Find a Meaningful Career at Visiting Angels of Bartlesville
Sometimes, self-care involves finding a career you’re passionate about. Visiting Angels of Bartlesville, OK, is always searching for compassionate and certified HHAs, CNAs, and LTCAs throughout Bartlesville, Dewey, Nowata, and Ramona. We offer paid time off, competitive hourly rates, and a supportive work environment.
Explore our open roles or contact us today at (918) 333-7400 for more information.