Tuesday, June 21, 2022

Reflection - Journeying with yourself - Self-care is the best care

Source (book): "He Walks with Me - Devotions for Your Caregiving Journey with God", PART II "JOURNEYING WITH YOURSELF", Chapter 19 "Self-care is the best care", Page 54.
Adapted from books by Shelly Beach: Ambushed By Grace: Help and Hope in the Caregiving Journey, and It Is Well with My Soul.


Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest
PHOTO: "Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest." - Mark 6:31

During His ministry, Jesus faced endless requests for help and healing. It was difficult for Him to escape the crowds wherever He went, and even when He sought respite (break), people would literally run to Him for His healing touch.

But Jesus didn't let His infinite compassion exhaust His finite strength - or that of His disciples. Seeing that they didn't even have a chance to eat, He told them, "Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest" (Mark 6:31).

Jesus knew His disciples were in for the long haul. After He went to the cross, they would have to continue His ministry. Aware of their physical and emotional limits, He wanted them to pace (do something at a slow and steady rate in order to avoid overexertion) themselves.

Caregiving is a marathon, not a sprint. Our role as a caregiver could last many years. If we're taking care of an elderly parent, or a lifetime if it's a child. Our days may also be long if our daily routines revolve around people who need constant care and attention. Like the disciples, we too need to pace ourselves.

First, consider this truth: the best gift you can offer in caregiving is your own health. When you take good care of yourself, you will be more able to take care of others.

So don't get burnt out. Learn to recognise your own physical and emotional limits, and avoid stretching yourself to breaking point. Some practical things you can do:
  • Make sure you get enough rest and respite.
  • Pay attention to your own medical needs.
  • Eat a healthy diet and get sufficient exercise.
  • Take regular breaks, like a few hours off each day or week, to do something you enjoy.
  • Keep up relationship with your friends.
  • Consider joining support groups, they can provide you with much-needed encouragement.
  • Tap respite care services or ask a friend or relative to take over watching your charge for a few hours each week.
  • Ask for help as you find creative ways to expand your support network.

One of the hardest things for a caregiver to recognise is that we are not indispensable. Many of us fall into the trap of thinking that we're the only ones who can care for our loved ones. This can in turn raise their expectations for us to be there for them all the time. We need to ask ourselves: If we're the only one caring for them, what would happen to them if something happens to us?

Veteran gerontologist (studies old age) Dr Helen Ko urges caregivers to avoid setting unreasonable standards for themselves. "Good enough is good enough," she says. "God does not expect us to be perfect caregivers. He only expects us to be faithful caregivers."

The "P's" of self-care
  • Prayer. Keep turning to God, the ultimate source of strength.
  • Pause. Take a break. Remember that while you're pausing, God still working on your loved one.
  • Plan. Anticipate problems and scenarios where possible, so that you will be better prepared should they arise.
  • Play. Do something you enjoy. It's okay to have fun.
  • Physical activity. Keep fit and stay healthy. Physical exercise produces chemicals in the body call endorphins, which improve your mood and help to counter depression.
  • Problem solve. When problems arise, focus on solving them. Don't waste your time or energy on assigning blame, it'll just make you more upset.
  • Praise. Find reasons to keep thanking God for His provision, such as your home, your family, or your job. Nurture a thankful heart.
  • Perseverance. Pace yourself. And thank God for the opportunity to look after your love ones; they are moments to be cherished.

You are a living sacrifice, not a burnt-out offering.

Picture posted by Thrive, Dorothy Ratusny, Reg. Psychotherapist, Author, Meditation Teacher
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkFe3Y0JGo4l-2-OX6x73W_mQn6nT3Ng15Jt3U5uQulgQd0DnnlLTYq9-9TP7VBeniz2C45H42Fl7byxSilS67cAZmod2a4zc_3riFyLf1V-GHDT9x577wOQE_z4dVqycDQdMAMamuZqoDuK7K6WE_-ECjCJ7bHmLR1HiC0lkZDfvN1b6kBTgqi5He/s2048/Dorothy-Ratusny-for-Insight-Timer-1.png
https://content.thriveglobal.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Dorothy-Ratusny-for-Insight-Timer-1.jpg
https://thriveglobal.com/stories/the-ultimate-self-care-guide/


"Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest." - Mark 6:31


Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest
PHOTO: "Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest." - Mark 6:31
Picture posted by Debbie Brownfield
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimAVVhoImNlPyKfcdcN6w4gf59k10aGTVrpg8KlN39jjq41sOZDDVR6coND_ZeNwHi1lD9IBwKl5cp4tFTETN8O8V6URBxBVQpuAyAIQWVQBfYiARaVjDRyfbF9Fql5UOAFCz5mTpSHICz5VEMtEZmGgJyGkQ8g7JN1Ltpi6UHLzq8ikWOct4lWadX/s1800/1a61bb968f68e3ba0336e644a172ff45.jpg
https://i.pinimg.com/originals/1a/61/bb/1a61bb968f68e3ba0336e644a172ff45.jpg
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/274578908519769933/



During His ministry, Jesus faced endless requests for help and healing. It was difficult for Him to escape the crowds wherever He went, and even when He sought respite (break), people would literally run to Him for His healing touch.

But Jesus didn't let His infinite compassion exhaust His finite strength - or that of His disciples. Seeing that they didn't even have a chance to eat, He told them, "Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest" (Mark 6:31).

Jesus knew His disciples were in for the long haul. After He went to the cross, they would have to continue His ministry. Aware of their physical and emotional limits, He wanted them to pace (do something at a slow and steady rate in order to avoid overexertion) themselves.


During His ministry, Jesus faced endless requests for help and healing.
PHOTO: During His ministry, Jesus faced endless requests for help and healing. It was difficult for Him to escape the crowds wherever He went, and even when He sought respite (break), people would literally run to Him for His healing touch.
Artwork by Artist: KELSY & JESSE LIGHTWEAVE
Picture posted by Altus Fine Art

https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM81N2rxjdmJe1HLgV9C0CbOfwHO0ISYKMFEXsnC0bRbJaob3aKl8WgIzqwF5CVuxGpkn6pAKv7FRTa6QcS4UOHvX3mskTOkLi4AGQa8gK2joMN8GV__wz0zQhKPx1Fy8_8OJv0b_fZpGPPPcvUd-Lug80g8oXscpJ3X2YWMWY552Kn5DffPXdAQ0G/s743/7e4102ad0c92c5950194791ec05771da.jpg
https://i.pinimg.com/564x/7e/41/02/7e4102ad0c92c5950194791ec05771da.jpg
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/10344274141864890/



Caregiving is a marathon, not a sprint. Our role as a caregiver could last many years. If we're taking care of an elderly parent, or a lifetime if it's a child. Our days may also be long if our daily routines revolve around people who need constant care and attention. Like the disciples, we too need to pace ourselves.


Caregiving is a marathon, not a sprint.
PHOTO: Caregiving is a marathon, not a sprint. Our role as a caregiver could last many years. If we're taking care of an elderly parent, or a lifetime if it's a child. Our days may also be long if our daily routines revolve around people who need constant care and attention. Like the disciples, we too need to pace ourselves.
Picture posted by Thalia @thalia on 26 May 2022 at 03:28 am

https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9xuSba4yhK_hif3ZyuH4RPSU_c_d0jwd89lhBFKF687qa3-YQqGYeuPUlTQF0LkraNQ1OPpin85683Q-aikNnIaOQZP0gFhqW0Jc5YFPZS4A_mZ49L9nVtC_DUxFPoCDqmTctwr4cR5mDZ7rBkVUOIjeq932_2XHBnJdkyHm3zhi0DodxBvvzPiKx/s2048/FToJG2wXwAIQxJt.jpg
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/FToJG2wXwAIQxJt?format=jpg&name=large
https://mobile.twitter.com/thalia/status/1529545047129178112



First, consider this truth: the best gift you can offer in caregiving is your own health. When you take good care of yourself, you will be more able to take care of others.


First, consider this truth: the best gift you can offer in caregiving is your own health.
PHOTO: First, consider this truth: the best gift you can offer in caregiving is your own health. When you take good care of yourself, you will be more able to take care of others.
Picture posted by Brian Laing

https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNt4yZES0pPcPDTZ3QXWHJ3X0adSxNwdu3WXTfOswpm0cpVAmG0xq-4AsE9XdulHi_6neTOZKWNN1onIdnp2dJaHZXYqcQ23zYrIXnbeXIWrMOWOYGpoSERgkn2Zv6AL8eE3WR10wZqqoT0KOEkc9swgFNBujrOoPf9W7_ifFl-UsRV4EKwVP9o2LD/s564/f7562f70c121204e9a7ce49136b6aaec.jpg
https://i.pinimg.com/564x/f7/56/2f/f7562f70c121204e9a7ce49136b6aaec.jpg
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/75998312448118724/



So don't get burnt out. Learn to recognise your own physical and emotional limits, and avoid stretching yourself to breaking point. Some practical things you can do:
  • Make sure you get enough rest and respite.
  • Pay attention to your own medical needs.
  • Eat a healthy diet and get sufficient exercise.
  • Take regular breaks, like a few hours off each day or week, to do something you enjoy.
  • Keep up relationship with your friends.
  • Consider joining support groups, they can provide you with much-needed encouragement.
  • Tap respite care services or ask a friend or relative to take over watching your charge for a few hours each week.
  • Ask for help as you find creative ways to expand your support network.

Some practical things you can do
PHOTO: Some practical things you can do
Don't get burnt out. Learn to recognise your own physical and emotional limits, and avoid stretching yourself to breaking point.
Picture posted by Brother Creative Center

https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6RW1-WA3jpWZgApc9JzK-VDoJ-WBLSrHL70oe9DE9MQvA8SVp6WcBJP1sNqsyczzmeqi3ZkOI-4afU94m89A9orbcrR2k71JQ7fWa6Ro2pc6RbZSXJz9LSM4dPxNS_bSIyti0p1-D_fWRFiQLv7slDXolAKAuOqVcovwUyhgI7r9PLHna_1ohV3Zd/s800/self-care-learning-activities-l-us.jpg
https://www.creativecenter.brother/-/media/creativecenter/contents/home/home/home-category/learning-activities/educational-tools/self-care/self-care-learning-activities-l-us.ashx
https://www.creativecenter.brother/en-us/home/home-category/learning-activities/educational-tools/self-care



One of the hardest things for a caregiver to recognise is that we are not indispensable. Many of us fall into the trap of thinking that we're the only ones who can care for our loved ones. This can in turn raise their expectations for us to be there for them all the time. We need to ask ourselves: If we're the only one caring for them, what would happen to them if something happens to us?


One of the hardest things for a caregiver to recognise is that we are not indispensable.
PHOTO: One of the hardest things for a caregiver to recognise is that we are not indispensable. Many of us fall into the trap of thinking that we're the only ones who can care for our loved ones. This can in turn raise their expectations for us to be there for them all the time. We need to ask ourselves: If we're the only one caring for them, what would happen to them if something happens to us?
Picture posted by Nicole Rose, Bokborsen

https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsP8eJJ5RDU7gpNF8YUSIiecfD1ooIcdpJY_iLzrx4Nkz-3RQquGA6hp5Cnrn8CkiLKydsfUapDXKlymMovMFnh8j53ClKLEOfWQplU__zE8yXd5WBsl7IMT1bRjGbPAcRtyig62z9aF8o17iUi2bqUcXdQcPuvMUNQvCz6GHJQTKqWISNFc5-60LL/s1024/5fbe356c6f2b4.jpg
https://bokborsenlive.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com/product/1789539/9958557/5fbe356c6f2b4.jpg
https://www.bokborsen.se/view/Nicole-Rose/Overcoming-Burnout/9958557?_p=1&f=1&qs=VLG+Service+AB&ug=7930339



Veteran gerontologist (studies old age) Dr Helen Ko urges caregivers to avoid setting unreasonable standards for themselves. "Good enough is good enough," she says. "God does not expect us to be perfect caregivers. He only expects us to be faithful caregivers."


Veteran gerontologist (studies old age) Dr Helen Ko
PHOTO: Veteran gerontologist (studies old age) Dr Helen Ko urges caregivers to avoid setting unreasonable standards for themselves. "Good enough is good enough," she says. "God does not expect us to be perfect caregivers. He only expects us to be faithful caregivers."
Picture posted by wix.com
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJx8K4IDJPJ3n5GckYl4iv4w8WIez5vn8sElvM2XXnEteJskaFk9HzQcXVFl1rREWOLhX4ZRNOOU0xj5NkXRLwWUnXZqz-gHPm2Cb3T5bxh0vTOIa87g2SY-FB3xN_cF7Hhkchi5CnTmjet9qZDaFFDHBTYHERLt3MOxT26HNAx2fgPxidqIUAQvSg/s1200/PNG_1.7MB.png
https://static.wixstatic.com/media/4dccca_8455a7d79eaf4a8baacba00e4f8181b4~mv2.png/v1/fill/w_900,h_1200,al_c/PNG_1.7MB.png
https://www.sos-symposium.com/courses/helen-ko



The "P's" of self-care
  • Prayer. Keep turning to God, the ultimate source of strength.
  • Pause. Take a break. Remember that while you're pausing, God still working on your loved one.
  • Plan. Anticipate problems and scenarios where possible, so that you will be better prepared should they arise.
  • Play. Do something you enjoy. It's okay to have fun.
  • Physical activity. Keep fit and stay healthy. Physical exercise produces chemicals in the body call endorphins, which improve your mood and help to counter depression.
  • Problem solve. When problems arise, focus on solving them. Don't waste your time or energy on assigning blame, it'll just make you more upset.
  • Praise. Find reasons to keep thanking God for His provision, such as your home, your family, or your job. Nurture a thankful heart.
  • Perseverance. Pace yourself. And thank God for the opportunity to look after your love ones; they are moments to be cherished.

You are a living sacrifice, not a burnt-out offering.


The 'P's' of self-care
 
 
Dear Lord
PHOTO: "Dear Lord, teach me how to let go of my own standards and other people's expectations as I learn to care for myself. Grant me the creativity to find ways to recharge and relax, and the wisdom to take care of this holy temple that You have given me. I pray for Your divine strength to uplift me physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually.

Through Lord Jesus Christ we pray. Amen!
"
Picture posted by Shutterstock
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https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/young-asian-women-walking-daisy-field-1165895203
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2021/05/more-tapping-cpfs-stability-to-stretch.html


Reflection - Journeying with yourself - Self-care is the best care
Source (book): "He Walks with Me - Devotions for Your Caregiving Journey with God", PART II "JOURNEYING WITH YOURSELF", Chapter 19 "Self-care is the best care", Page 54.
Adapted from books by Shelly Beach: Ambushed By Grace: Help and Hope in the Caregiving Journey, and It Is Well with My Soul.



Other Books (Links)

"Faithful to the end", A Preacher's Exposition of 2 Timothy, @ 2014 by Robert M. Solomon

'Faithful to the end', A Preacher's Exposition of 2 Timothy, @ 2014 by Robert M. Solomon<br>
Reflection - Faithful to the end (Links)
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2017/06/reflection-faithful-to-end-links.html


"Finding rest for the soul" Responding to Jesus' Invitation in Matthew 11:28-29, ©
2016 by Robert M. Solomon

Reflection - Finding rest for the soul (Links)
Reflection - Finding rest for the soul (Links)
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2018/10/reflection-finding-rest-for-soul-links.html


"God in Pursuit" Lessons from the Book of Jonah, ©
2016 by Robert M. Solomon

'Reflection - God in Pursuit (Links) - PART I-III, posted on Saturday, 10 August 2019
Reflection - God in Pursuit (Links) - PART I-III, posted on Saturday, 10 August 2019
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2019/08/reflection-god-in-pursuit-links-part-i.html


"God in Pursuit" Lessons from the Book of Jonah, ©
2016 by Robert M. Solomon

'Reflection - God in Pursuit (Links) - PART IV, posted on Saturday, 10 August 2019
Reflection - God in Pursuit (Links) - PART IV, posted on Saturday, 10 August 2019
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2019/08/reflection-god-in-pursuit-links-part-iv.html
 


"Songs of Christmas", The Stories and Significance of 20 Well-Loved Carols, ©
2018 by Robert M. Solomon

Reflection - Songs of Christmas (Links), posted on Friday, 24 April 2020
Reflection - Songs of Christmas (Links), posted on Friday, 24 April 2020

https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2020/04/reflection-songs-of-christmas-links.html
 

"Growing Old Gracefully", Following Jesus to the End, © 2019 by Robert M. Solomon

Reflection - Growing Old Gracefully, Part I - III (Links), posted on Wednesday, 09 December 2020
Reflection - Growing Old Gracefully, Part I - III (Links), posted on Wednesday, 09 December 2020
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2020/12/reflection-growing-old-gracefully-part.html
 

Reflection - Growing Old Gracefully, Part IV - V (Links), posted on Thursday, 22 April 2021
Reflection - Growing Old Gracefully, Part IV - V (Links), posted on Thursday, 22 April 2021
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2020/12/reflection-growing-old-gracefully-part_9.html
 

"Teach Us to Number Our Days", © 2008 by David Roper

Reflection - Number Our Days, Chapter 1 - 40 (Links), posted on Tuesday, 16 November 2021
Reflection - Number Our Days, Chapter 1 - 40 (Links), posted on Tuesday, 16 November 2021
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2021/11/reflection-number-our-days-chapter-1-40.html
 
 
Reflection - Number Our Days, Chapter 41 - 64 (Links), posted on Wednesday, 16 March 2022
Reflection - Number Our Days, Chapter 41 - 64 (Links), posted on Wednesday, 16 March 2022
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2022/03/reflection-number-our-days-chapter-41.html
 


Reference
[1] From "He Walks with Me - Devotions for Your Caregiving Journey with God", Copyright © 2018 by Our Daily Bread Ministries, PART II "JOURNEYING WITH YOURSELF", Chapter 19 "Self-care is the best care", Page 54-56-.


Links


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