Self-Care for Carers

When most of your time is spent looking after the physical and emotional needs of someone else, taking care of your own needs often becomes an afterthought, leading to things like burn out and increased anxiety levels. Here are some ways we encourage carers to unwind and take care of their mental, physical and emotional health…

Practicing Self Care

Whether it's a warm bubble bath with dead sea salts and essential oils at the end of each day, or a weekly massage at your local spa, making time to do the little things that make your feel pampered and cared for both physically and mentally are so important. Reading a book, doing a face mask, cooking yourself a healthy meal, taking yourself for a walk and watching your favourite films are all easy ways we can practice some self care and relaxation.

Spend time with friends

A healthy social life is one of the many keys to happiness and fulfilment. Spend meaningful time with those you love, take part in activities you enjoy and have fun!

Take time out for your other interests

What interests you? Maybe it's natural history, literature or art. Take some time out to explore these interests, visit a museum or take a local class - let your mind unwind by getting excited about something you love!

Get emotional support

We all need a little extra support some days, and as a carer who spends much of their time supporting others - it can be easy to forget we need support too! Reach out whenever you feel in need of a listening ear, whether that's to a friend, family member, colleague or therapist.

Make time for rest days

We often fill our diary's with chores, shopping lists, appointments and activities, but rarely do we remember to schedule our rest days! Make sure to keep at least one day each week free for the big 'R's; Rest, Recovery and Relaxation!

Exercise

Be it a short walk around the park, a morning work out in your front room or some light stretches before bed, make sure you're getting your body moving a little bit every day.

Nutritional Support

Ok, so maybe getting your five-a-day EVERY day is a little unrealistic, but there are so many vitamins, supplements and nutrient rich shakes and smoothies available these days getting your daily dose of vitamins has never been easier! Invest in some good chewable vitamins or stock up on some tasty fruit smoothies and make sure you're getting the nutritional support you need!