Family caregivers can’t fully support their loved ones without caring for themselves first. To give 100% to your caregiving duties, it’s essential to prioritize your own health, including both physical and mental well-being.
Self-care often involves connecting with others, maintaining hobbies, and relaxing activities like yoga or meditation. However, even small actions like repeating mantras for caregivers can help manage mental health.
What is a mantra?
A mantra is a word or phrase one repeats to aid in concentration, focus, or releasing one’s mind. The practice originated in religions such as Hinduism and Buddhism, but has since been adopted for mental health practices. People utilize mantras to clear their thoughts and bring them back to the present.
Repeating mantras can be an extension of the mindfulness practice you may already partake in, as it encourages you to focus on the present instead of ruminating about what you cannot control.
Mantras for caregivers
A mantra can be anything you want it to be. What is most important is that it has its desired impact. If you’d like to start incorporating a mantra into your life, but aren’t sure what to use, consider some of these options.
“I am creating positive change”
In the midst of all the hardships that come with caring for an elderly loved one, it can be difficult to see the positive impact your work has on their lives. Take time to remind yourself that, no matter what the day looks like, you are indeed making positive changes in your loved one’s life.
“Keep putting one foot in front of the other”
The most important aspect of acting as a caregiver isn’t the amount of work you complete every day: it’s about showing up. Each and every day, you must rise to the occasion to support your elderly loved one. As long as you continue to put one foot in front of the other, things will move in the right direction.
“If one path doesn’t work, go down another”
You’re not going to get everything right the first time, and that is something you have to learn to accept. When that happens, don’t let it squander you. Instead, remember that there is always another path to go down. Keep trying new things to find the solution that works best for you and your loved one.
“I’m not alone”
Caring for an elderly loved one can feel isolating at times, but it’s important to remember you’re not alone. You have family and friends who are more than willing to offer support when you need it. Remind yourself of this and don’t hesitate to reach out to them for help or a listening ear.
When caregiving grows to be too difficult a feat, hire help
There may be times when providing your elderly loved one care all on your own is too much. Recognize that it’s perfectly normal to need help in such a difficult position, and hire the help of an at-home caregiver. These professionals can assist with any and all of the non-medical activities of daily living your loved one may need help with.
If you think your loved one would benefit from the support of an at-home caregiver, give us a call at 773-274-9262. We would love to discuss our program with you.
