A growing number of women are experiencing the challenges of being a caregiver. Whether they’re looking after children, elderly parents or a sick relative, the stress can take a physical toll on even the most hardy individuals.
The editors of Caring Today magazine offer these tips to work a little relief into busy schedules:
• Make time for a hobby. There’s no need to feel guilty for taking time to have fun. Consider a hobby a tonic for your health. Paint a picture, knit a sweater, strum a guitar or hit a few golf balls.
• Take a 10-minute vacation. Can’t go on that holiday you really need? Take a 10-minute fantasy vacation instead. Close your eyes and picture yourself in a place that makes you happy. Focus on the details-the sights, sounds, smells and feelings-to bring the scene alive.
• Try the tennis ball trick. For a quick mood boost, roll a tennis ball over tight muscles. But make sure you use a firm pressure-a light stroke stimulates instead of calms.
• Write out your worries. Telling your troubles to a friend can make you feel better. So can venting on paper. In fact, study after study suggests...