What does it mean to be a caregiver? The definition in Webster’s dictionary is:
“Caregiver /ˈkerˌɡivər/: a family member or paid helper who regularly looks after a child or a sick, elderly, or disabled person.”
I have never thought of myself as a caregiver, I always think of the work that I do outside of teaching yoga is what I do as a mom, a wife, a daughter, a sister, or a friend but truth is I have been a caregiver for a long time. As the mother of a daughter with a permanent disability, I hope to continue to be her caregiver for as long as I am able and needed.
Over the years, I have met many other caregivers in our community. I have met parents, siblings and people who we have hired to help us along the way. One thing for sure is that caregivers are very special. It takes lots of love, patience, empathy, and skills to handle the variety of tasks needed.
Yet, the caregiver is often overlooked. When looking for advice on hiring caregivers, one seasoned mother advised me to be sure to give our helpers plenty of time off, as burnout is an issue. I was surprised because Jessica is fun to be with, yet I could relate! As a tired mom, I have often felt the need to take a break. I have needed some time for myself, not to worry about the needs of others. I feel fortunate as a yoga teacher that my Let It Go Yoga practice has given me a lot of relief over the years. Just that hour or so to close my eyes, put everything aside for a while and most important, to lie down and see what kind of practice shows up can do the trick. Sometimes, I’d lie down and do an entire practice, sometimes just a few poses, sometimes I’d fall asleep, sometimes, I’d cry. Yet so far, every time, I have gotten back up, felt grateful for the time on the mat and went back to my life with renewed energy.
Let It Go Yoga can be an important tool to avoid the state of emotional, mental, and often physical exhaustion brought on by prolonged or repeated duties. Everyone needs to take a break from their work. Even the most loving, patient and willing caregiver will need to have time off. Caregivers are in demand and give so much to our loved ones. Higher salaries, more benefits, and much needed self-care are essential to keeping our beloved caregivers going strong. I hope you (or a caregiver in your life) will give Let It Go Yoga a try. Yes, it takes an hour of your time but it gives you so much in return. You will feel better and be ready to return to your much needed position with renewed patience, empathy, and the energy to handle whatever is needed.
Thank you to all the caregivers.
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