Caregivers and helpers are typically overburdened and overworked. It is often the case that orienting to the needs of others takes precedence over one’s own needs. Time for oneself is frequently in short supply. Though it may seem simplistic, getting out for a short walk to clear one’s thoughts and breathe more deeply can be restorative and help to create emotional rebalancing. Having this time, even if it is only 15-minutes, can provide the necessary reconnection with one’s self that is often prevented by the demands of the person one is responsible for. Moving one’s body and shifting one’s orientation to outside the caretaking space can be both restoring and often reinvigorating. Give it a try and see for yourself. If you are working at a hospital or agency setting, consider spending half of your lunch break walking with a friend. This is one of the easiest and most time-efficient self-care tools you can implement. As you move your body, tension and stress will be somewhat mitigated. Short breaks may be all you get so make the most of them.
Howard Brockman, LCSW
Posted March 5, 2013
Howard Brockman
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