Three Shifts To Help You Reduce Caregiver Stress

Send Cathy a text:)Imagine what it would feel like if you had less stress and guilt?  And you embraced more joy and gratitude?Well I want to share 3 shifts that I have done consistently to keep my stress levels down.  I hope when you listen to these today you can find one of these helpful to use right away or it sparks another idea to try.The mistake I see so many caregiver make is filling up their schedule - time, energy with work, doctor appointments, house work (you fill in the blank here) .  They jam back their day with so many priorities.  Finding changes or shifts to keep your stress levels down and really focusing on yourself is key  Shift 1:  Morning MindsetStart the day with positivity, intent and control your stressIt can be as simple as 15 minutesShift2:   Adopt a Gratitude PracticeAnother huge mistake we as caregivers make is letting those feelings and thoughts just simmer and bubble  inside us.  We have moments where we feel resentful, angry and are frustrated.  You feel like everything is pushing at you.  It wears on you and you become this person you do recognize anymore - moody, withdrawn, sad, or negative.A Gratitude PracticeLowers stressHelps you be more resilientEncourages healthier behaviorsMakes you happierShift 3:   Schedule Time AwayYou are so exhausted and find yourself with no energy and for me it was I cried at the drop of a pin or I my moods were out of control.  You talk yourself out of it. Why? Benefits of time awayBoost mental healthGives you time for physical activityProvides opportunity for fun and socializationDevelops better ways of caring for your loved oneAll 3 of these shifts require some trial and error and some planning.   You need to find what works for you.  To conclude today - you have choice each day.    Caregiving is not easy.  Caregiving pushes us to higher levels of stress, anxiety, guilt and pressure.   Based on my experiences, you have to get in front of them and find ways to reduce and release the stresses.   If you don’t it can and will lead to health issues.     I hope you start a shift today.   Drop me a dm @cathylynnvan and tell me how it’s going.  If you are looking for more help and working with me - I have a Caregiver Cup Program available which is online training and group coaching.  It starts on November 15.  For more information, go to https://www.cathylan.com/enroll   Support the show