Self Love is Selfless

Caregiving is a very noble role and duty that a person can perform for another as it benefits people who are unable to take care of themselves due to age or sicknesses. Yet many caregivers forget and forgo their own needs when taking care of others. This is one of the problems with people who has great empathy for others. Self-sacrifice is often mistaken for doing good for another person. Yet that is one of the acts of harm towards a human being – the caregiver himself.


Taking care of oneself is of utmost importance in caregiving. This is because by taking care of yourself, you keep the source of support ongoing for the other person who is dependent on you on a long-term basis. Only when one is safe and fine can one then go take care of others. This is like the scenario on airplane when one should put on their oxygen masks for themselves first then attend to help others. If the caregiver collapse, no one will be able to help those in need of assistance. Self-love in caregiving is not selfish. It is selfless.


So here I will share with you some self-love tips for caregivers that should be practiced often to keep the physical, mental and emotional health of caregivers in check:


1.       Eat healthy meals regularly



Caregiving is hard on the body and mind so it is important to keep the body and mind healthy by reenergizing yourself with nutritious meals. Include lots of fruits and vegetables which will help to boost your immunity.




2.       Keep hydrated




Keeping yourself hydrated help to keep your mind clear and keep the body as detoxified as possible. You may be tempted to go for caffeinated drinks or sugary drinks to give you the surge of energy but try to refrain from that as it will cause you to have energy dips later. Plain water is by far the best option!




3.       Sleep and rest regularly


Rest is important to keep your immunity in check. So try to get enough sleep and rest  as much as possible. Naps are also highly recommended.



4.       Rebalance with holistic treatments



Holistic treatments like Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture can help to resolve any aches and pains in the body, aid digestive health and improve sleep quality. They can also help to manage stress that comes with caregiving. With the right acupuncture treatments and herbal prescription, the body will be rebalanced and reenergized effectively.




5.       Cater time for exercise


Exercise is crucial for stress release. Try to cater at least 15 minutes daily for simple exercises like taking walks in nature or some indoor exercises to get your heart and lungs pumping.


6.       Ask for help


Learn to ask for help from family and friends. People are often very eager to help during difficult times. Accept the support that is offered by your friends and family. If you feel that you need to, have the courage to speak to a counsellor or a spiritual advisor.


7.       Give yourself a break


Give permission to yourself for your own me time, away from the bedside of your loved one. This is especially important when you are feeling overwhelmed or exhausted.

Basics of TCM, Being Human, Inner Practice, TCM Wellness, TCM(Traditional Chin Med)Xiang Jun LimDr (TCM) Xiang Juneat, sleep, rest, self love, caregiving, exercise