“Rest and self-care are so important. When you take time to replenish your spirit it allows you to serve others from the overflow. You cannot serve from an empty vessel.” ~Eleanor Brownn
According to a recent “Stress in America” survey by The American Psychological Association, many of us suffer from unhealthy habits developed during COVID. The second anniversary of the pandemic has just passed, but it seems other stressors are now paramount: the war in Ukraine, global uncertainty, and price increases everywhere. Plus, giving care to others can easily intensify the stress.
How do you cope with these pressures? The survey mentioned above goes on to say that most people have been dealing with the increased stress by consuming more food, drinking more alcohol, and exercising less due to a lack of motivation. While these behaviors may be satisfying in the short run, they have mental and physical health consequences in the long run.
In my book, The Nature of Caregiving, I emphasize that self-care must be given a part-time job status! Not only will it benefit you, but also those receiving your care. To help make it a priority, place a sticky note in a prominent place that reads, Self-care is my new part-time job!
Warm regards,
Rebecca Hauder BSN, M.Ed.