Taking care of family members - such as parenting a child or making sure your elderly parents are ok - is in itself work and even stressful, let alone when your family member has challenges.
So what do you do for self-care? Here are some ideas:
Physical Care
Exercise regularly
Have a good night’s sleep
Eat right by cutting down on sugars and processed food
Drink soothing herbal tea, warm chocolate, or milk
Receive regular preventive medical care
Cuddle up with your partner or spouse
Take a hot shower or soak in a long bath
Walk your dog or on your own or with a friend
Learn mindfulness exercises – listen to audio clips or listen to them on YouTube
Emotional Care
Listen to your favorite music
Set time aside for fun with family and friends
Join a social club (such as meetup.com) and make new friends
Express emotions such as laughing and crying
Put aside alone time for self-reflection
Prioritize activities that make you happy
Be flexible about social activities and work around family schedule
Spoil yourself - get a massage, manicure, pedicure or go to a spa
Laugh at the funnies (see Yahoo’s homepage)
Find time for a weekly date with your partner
Say “No” to extra responsibilities
Join a parent’s network to discuss concerns
Consider therapy for anxiety, stress and anger management
Intellectual Care
Go to the library or browse the Web for intellectually stimulating content
Listen to radio programs, audio books or podcasts
Do a project – handicrafts or art
Write stories, blogs or personal journal
Watch documentaries on TV, DVD from the library or Netflix
Take up a hobby
Join an intellectual discussion group
Enroll in a part-time course – online or offline
Spiritual Care
Attend religious services
Spend time outdoors and in nature
Meditate or pray
Contribute to causes you believe in
Write a journal and reflect on your new life
Find quiet time for yourself
Volunteer with your school or charitable organization
Take charge of yourself – recharge!