Tips for Strategic Self-Care
I have to admit something to you. . .
I never thought the snow would end this year.
Listen, I get that we live in Ohio, but snow through April? Seriously?
Now that the weather has FINALLY broken, I thought it would be a great time for some self-care tips.
If you are caring for someone who is living with mental illness, then you know it can be hard to give from a dry well.
Matching the compassion you are showing to your loved one with the same level of compassion towards yourself can be the best way for you to create the energy you need to support them.
With no more ado, here are my top three tips for self-care this month:
Exercise. Whether you like to run, walk, hike, lift weights or take yoga, exercise can be one of the best ways to care for yourself while you care for your loved one. The healthcare community agrees that exercise can reduce stress and increase feel-good hormones.It’s an all-around win! Get out to a local park with a friend (furry or otherwise!) and enjoy some fresh air.
Support. It may not seem like it, but there are many, many people who are caring for a loved one who is living with mental illness. Talking about it with them – getting great support – is one of the ways that you can find balance while you help. Our One-to-One Caregiver Support pilot program can even match you with someone who has a similar story!
Breathe. One of the things that we talk about in the office all the time is the need to put on your own oxygen mask before you help anyone else. Breathing is the best! Join us for our Breathing Meditation program during our pilot and learn an amazing way to reduce stress and create calm.
I didn’t put this in as one of the “tips,” but it is worth mentioning. How about getting yourself outside? Have you heard the birds chirping and the felt the sun on your skin? That’s pretty good self-care, too.
I’d love to meet you in person sometime. How about joining me for some breathing meditation?
Our pilots will be launching this summer and I couldn’t be more excited to share with you what we have planned. If you are interested in participating, reply to this email and I’ll get you on a list so you’ll know exactly when we are ready to start!
Take care,
Kristi
Kristi Horner
Founder and Executive Director