Get Engaged!

I don’t mean engaged to be married; I mean engaged to LIVE your life to its fullest. That’s what we are here to do, so let’s do it.

Being a caregiver can be work, even for the most loving and patient of people. Even though it’s something we decide to do for a loved one because we want to, it’s still a challenge to take care of ourselves AND others. Sometimes we lose sight of who we and our loved ones are. We forget what it means to enjoy life.

Over time – and after much research - I have come to the conclusion that, even with a very full plate (in fact, sometimes in spite of it) we can keep our spirits up for all concerned. Here are some ideas about how to keep the juices flowing:

• Get Creative – Find ways to let yourself shine through art work, folk art, dance, music and song. I personally love to do wood working. It is very satisfying on many levels.
• Get Physical – We all know the health benefits of movement. Even seated in a chair or lying down we can do yoga and more. Moving those muscles releases stress and helps keep the body more agile.
• Get Spiritual – Mediation and prayer provides us with ways to connect to something greater than ourselves. Reduce isolation with the comraderie that can be experienced when you participate in meaningful religious or spiritual traditions.
• Get Community – Talk to others, especially those who understand caregiving. You can help one another.
• Get Educated – You don’t already know everything. What do you wish you knew more about? Online classes and activity centers can offer you the world.
• Get Leisure – Have fun in all shapes and sizes. Dominoes, picnics, concerts, sports are all great opportunities to enjoy what life has to offer.

Now is the time to fill your tank with activities that fuel you. This is what will keep you going even when times get tough. You still have ‘lots of living to do’.