Caregiving is stressful.  Here are some quick ideas for stress reduction.  They’re not going to make the stress-causing problems go away, but your body isn’t going to bear the weight of the stress and its attack on your immune system.

Breathe!  Take a couple of good, deep breaths and hold them for a few counts, then slowly let the air out.  The improved oxygen levels will help clear your brain, and you can relax.  Doing a breathing exercise instead of yelling is really better for everyone.

Sing.  This is sort of like breathing because it lowers our blood pressure and heart rate.  In addition, singing uses lots of areas of our brain which helps release the grip of whatever is causing the stress.

Make a fist.  It’s a quick and easy way to get your body to release its tension.  Make a fist, hold it for five seconds and then slowly relax.  Remember, you’re doing this as a release of tension, so don’t use your fist to hit anything or anyone.  Chewing gum is another way to get the muscles to work so they can expel tension through exercise.

Look at the color blue.  Blue is apparently a relaxing color, so take it in in art, photographs, or go look at the sky, ocean or other large body of water.  Imagine how relaxing it would be to lie down on the grass and look up at the sky…

Take a walk.  Literally walk away form the source of the tension by going around the block.  It’s a good way to put a break between you and what’s causing the tension.  Walking outdoors in the sun is a good way to relax.  Walking outdoors in the sun in a pretty setting like a park is even better.

Recognize that stress and tension are a part of the caregiving experience.  Know when it’s getting the better of you and then be willing to do a quick fix.  Everyone will benefit.

Blessings, Joanne