Self-care for caregivers
By Krista Riddle, TAEM Peer Ambassador
As a caregiver, I have come to realize and appreciate the importance of self-care for myself and also for my family. If I do not take care of myself, then I’m pouring out from an empty cup, which is not beneficial to those who depend on me as a caregiver.
Below are a few at-home techniques and local organizations that can help you practice low-cost self-care.
Mindfulness: Practicing gratitude journaling can help us see what is important and also good in our lives. I received a gratitude journal for Christmas, and it has been such a blessing for my family and me. Having a gratitude journal gives us the chance to speak out and write down what there is to be grateful for, which helps me as a caregiver. Alkebu-Lan Images on Jefferson St is a Black-owned bookstore that stocks journals, diaries, notebooks, and sketch pads.
Unplug: Another way to practice self-care at home is to disconnect from all social media. There is so much going on in our world today, and it can be overwhelming when we are too plugged in. I find that unplugging from social media allows me to reset my mind and thoughts. One way to unplug is to enroll in the monthly classes offered at the Martha O'Bryan Center (MOBC). These can be found in the monthly MOBC newsletter, which includes exercise classes, tech classes, and fun family events. These events are a great way to unplug and dive into something beneficial for caregivers and their families.
Self-Pampering: Here in Nashville and the surrounding areas, local beauty schools offer low-cost self-care services. One is Aveda Arts & Sciences Institute, Nashville, which offers salon/spa services using Aveda products for hair, skin, and nails. Another location, TCAT Nashville on White Bridge Road, offers very low-cost services including $10 haircuts, $15 pedicures, and $15 basic facials.