According to the National Alliance for Caregiving, caregivers report an increased level of stress, exhaustion and difficulty finding time for themselves.
Research has shown that caregiver stress appears to affect women more than men and about 75% of caregivers who report feeling very strained emotionally, physically or financially are women. Too much stress can lead to health issues such as depression, heart disease and diabetes to name a few.
Numerous studies show that having a hobby is an excellent form of stress relief. So why not cut yourself some slack and take up that hobby you never thought you’d get around to? Those 30 or 40 minutes of focused attention wipe away, at least for awhile, some of your cares and burdens. Hobbies provide a slice of work-free and responsibility-free time in your schedule.
We’ve noted three hobbies to get you headed in a “more relaxed you” direction:
Reduce Caregiver Stress by Painting
Maybe art has never been your forte or maybe you’ve always wondered if there’s something to that art award you got in high school. There are Michaels, JOANN and Hobby Lobby stores in most cities and many of them offer workshops and classes. Consider taking a painting class or just pick up a brush and canvas and try your hand at it. You never know, you might find your hidden talent.
Reduce Caregiver Stress With Music
Maybe it’s time to pick up a new instrument—or even an old one. You know like those ivories in the living room that only get tickled when they’re dusted? Maybe you have a few friends who’d like to join you for a jam session on their favorite instruments. Just about every city in the country has an NPR radio station which oftentimes plays classical music. By listening to this type of music, it's very soothing and can relieve a great deal of tension.
Reduce Caregiver Stress Through Exercise
Grab a neighbor or a friend and meet up to take a walk at least once a week. Exercise reduces cortisol (the stress hormone) levels in your body. The American Heart Association has a website designed for those who want to create their own walk-club or find one already established in their community. Meeting a friend not only will keep you accountable for carving out time but will help fill the void of social interaction that many caregivers experience. Or if you prefer to have some alone time, just pop on your headphones and go!
It can be challenging trying to fit in “me time” without the guilt—but in the long run, it might make you a better caregiver.
For more helpful tips on becoming a better caregiver, click here to access The Essential Caregiver Toolkit today for free!