Caregiving, the Holidays and COVID The COVID pandemic roller coaster has been operating since March, forcing us onto the ride and refusing to let us off. We have made adjustments: we restrict our outings into the community, wear masks when we do go out, maintain 6 feet distance and wash our hands until they turn red. We have been forced to accept that the pandemic is as much about loss as it is about health. And while we got used to a little taste of “normalcy” during the warmer months, just as the holiday season approaches, we are again asked to limit our travel and minimize contact with others. Now, rather than anticipating gatherings with friends and family, we must instead ask ourselves: “Should I?”, “Can I?” and “How can I possibly face another loss?” Read more
Creating Your Own Self-Care Kit It is no secret that self-care can have many benefits to our mental, physical and emotional health. According to research, practicing self-care can decrease stress, improve well-being, lower mortality, increase relaxation responses and decrease healthcare costs. While it can often be challenging to find the time to practice self-care, it is important for us to plan for and look for ways to integrate it when possible. Read more