Caring for the Caregiver CORE Health Care Page 2 of 2

Quick relaxation tips:

• Just stop wherever you are. Take a deep breath . . . let the air out very slowly. Imagine that you are breathing in energy and breathing out tension, letting all the tension go. Repeat several times.
• Lie on your back with support, if needed. Let your body sink down until it is completely supported by the floor. Close your eyes and sink back in total relaxation, letting your mind and body be perfectly still. Feel yourself breathing deeply and easily.
• Assume a comfortable position. Close your eyes. Deeply relax all of your muscles, beginning at your feet and progressing up to your face. Keep the relaxed feeling. Breathe through your nose and become aware of your breathing. After each exhalation, think the word “one” silently to yourself. Breathe easily and naturally.

If you feel guilty about taking this time to take care of yourself as a caregiver, ask yourself this question, if you were to lose your health, who else would have the compassion and courage to step in and take care of both you and your loved one?

References

Barg, G. (2001). The Fearless Caregiver: How to get the best care for your loved one and still have a life of your own. Capital Books, Inc: Herndon, VA.

Chwalisz, K. (1992). Perceived stress and caregiver burden after brain injury: A theoretical integration. Rehabilitation Psychology, 37 (3), 189-203.
 

Davis, M., Robbins-Eshelman, E., & McKay, M. (1995). The Relaxation and StressReduction Workbook. New Harbinger Publications, Inc.: Oakland, CA.

Family Caregiver Alliance, Fact Sheet: Care giving and Depression.

Hamby, R. I. & Sacher, M. (2004). Effects of Depression on the Body. Heart Center Online.

Kreutzer, J. S., Gervasio, A. H., & Camplair, P. S. (1994). Primary caregivers’ psychological status and family functioning after TBI. Brain Injury, 8 (3), 197-210.

Shimer, P. (2002). New Hope for People With Alzheimer’s and Their Caregivers. Prima Publishing: Roseville, CA.

From CORE Health Care. Used with permission. www.corehealth.com.
 

 Comments

There are currently no comments for this article