Five 5-Minute Pick-Me-ups for Caregiver Stress

#1 is no help. To paraphrase Dante: “There is no greater sorrow than to recall past happiness in times of misery”

num 4 topic is really helping ..

I don't have a lot of time with a stressful job and caregiving. I sometimes feel that I am on call all the time. This article gives me simple ways in which I can relax and get rid of the stress. I am noticing that I am getting colds more often probably due to increased stress which adds to my stress. Thank you for reminding me that taking care of me is possible in short time periods and is worth it. Debbie

Yes, they have super dark chocolate, today, it's strong, but....helps.

I needed these ideas and more! Just do not know where to start but will try the breathing program first!

Thank you for so many ideas, I love the one of taking a memory picture, but I actually take a photo. I like that! Later looking at it makes me sad, though. But, the walk is great, oh! which also makes me sad, because I used to take lots of walks with my hubby. Now, what helps me a little is getting out of the house, talking to people, which I dont allow the time, but when I do, is good. Some of the acquantaces I have are very nice and understanding. They feel I need a break, they see me sad all the time. But, I try to snap out of it, turning my negatives, and sad thoughts to POSITIVES ONES. And to say a prayer, God help me, God help us. And to say Thank you to God for EVERYTHING HE has done for me. It could have been worse. Thank you all for your understanding and for always taking your time to write a message. I missed my caregivers meeting last night. I wanted to go but I went to see my husband and the doctor and social workers were there and we were talking about my husband. By the time, we finished it was already too late.

Good tips. Here's my addition to the breathing... I also think phrases while I breathe slowly and deeply, slowing down the words to match the breathing. Example: (breathe in) Lord, I feel your spirit (breathe out) moving through me. (breathe in) I feel Your peace (breathe out) take away my stress. And so on... Hugs to all!

Just what the title said: quick/easy/& can be done anywhere! Thanks!

I think I wil try the breathing technique. It was part of a yoga class I took years ago and maybe that will help relax me. Got to find something to get the kinks out..

They were all good ideas. I will try the balloon idea and see if it helps when I can't get a worry thought to stop repeating over and over again in my brain.

Here's another calming activity. Being with pets (making cats pur, playing with a dog, etc) definitely helps calm me down and brings me joy. Even watching birds bathing in a birdbath can be calming.

I have found listening to music or found a site on here where I can listen to relaxing songs of wolves or indian music that is very calming.

I have found a site on u-tube where I can download or just watch videos and music of wolves or indian songs..to me its very relaxing and helps me get through the day.

It's odd,my comment awhile ago shows blank. Anyway,what I said-- Sometimes in the evening before the sun goes down I sit in my lawn swing with a glass of wine and my dog nearby and think of all the good things in life. It is very calming and I can almost feel the endorphins humming in my brain.

Hi and thank you. As well as being a caregiver I am the cofounder of the InterPlay practice: great for self care. I just published my friday virtual InterPlay which shares five more one minute suggestions to move toward playfulness (another way to respond to stress) See https://interplayfriday.wordpress.com/

When you are in the process of caring for a loved one you need to find the things that can help you keep a positive perspective on the situation. These are very good ideas. Thanks for mentioning them.

The Five-Minute Respite. We need respite! All caregivers need to take a respite. Getting away from the situation is key to regrouping and being able to return to the often stressful act of caregiving"“even if it's five minutes. There were times I looked forward to a simple bathroom break. Imagine that! Also see Tips for Caregivers--Tip # 6 Seek respite, even for five minutes. Martyrs are not heroes. NEVER say NEVER. Consider your options"”adult day care, in-home care, board and care, assisted living, skilled nursing facility. For all 8 Tips: http://www.thecaregiversvoice.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/TCV-Tips-for-Caregivers.pdf

thanks for the tips, I feel better already. Simple but so helpful. Loved the shopping idea.

One to four very helpful. Number five is a little flaky.

I needed this article, today, right now. My Dad is in the hospital for the second time this week, and the walls around us seem to be caving in. It is amazing how these "tips" this morning appeared when I needed them, and they worked. I tried the breathing exercise and it really helped. The balloon "fantasy" sounded too simple, but I tried it and guess what: I FEEL BETTER. Many thanks. Keep'em coming. If any readers have any other tips to add, I am very happy to read them all. I have found that slow "stretching" of different parts of the body and back help me also, as does massaging the back of my neck (stiffened from chronic stress!).

Memory photo is a great idea. It helps to focus on the good images. And what better than chocolate to ease the wounded heart and relax the breathing.

Just knowing a few things that are quick to release stress.

These pich-me-ups are some I never thought about. I really like the one about chococlate, I LOVE DARK CHOCOLATE. Thanks for the others. I will have to try them all.