Self-Care With Caregiving

 In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) hosted a special learning event on Friday, May 31, 2024, at 11 am with the theme The Importance of Self-Care While Caregiving. This event is an opportunity to learn, engage, and be part of a movement to value mental health as an integral part of overall health. I learned a specific list of self-care techniques: self-compassion, 10 minutes breath awareness, yoga, meditation with tai chi, also deep relaxation. I learn to eat well, sleep to be energized, refreshed, social connection with caregiver support group events, balance self needs with responsibilities of meeting needs of another with assertive sharing the importance of how self care helps to rejuvenate with healthier care for others. I learn how public parks are learning opportunities to enjoy nature with walks shareable with others with art with Disaster Behavioral Health Services (texas.gov). I wish to start small and integrate new self-care practices gradually.

As Mental Health Awareness Month comes to a close, the lessons learned and the strategies shared during these events will hopefully resonate throughout the year, inspiring ongoing efforts to support mental health for caregivers and the community.

Embracing Self-Care and Compassion: A Journey Through Public Parks

May 30, 2024, I have a moment to pause and evaluate on the intertwining themes of self-care, caregiving, and the nurturing embrace of public parks. This date is a day on the calendar and a time to check-in in on my journey of love, care, and understanding in Sebastian, Florida where I live.

June PTSD Awareness Month

With June being PTSD Awareness Month, our reflections on self-care take on an added layer of significance. This is a time to acknowledge the struggles faced by those living with PTSD and to evaluate how our actions, both big and small, may foster an environment of healing and understanding.

The Role of Public Parks

Public parks, those oases of green amidst the concrete, play a crucial role in our collective and individual well-being. They are spaces where we may breathe, move, and connect with nature and each other. They serve as communal living rooms, hosting our celebrations, our quiet moments of introspection, and our steps towards better mental health.

Three Positive Results to Be Thankful For

As I evaluate, I wish to count the blessings and positive outcomes of my paths:

1. The increased awareness and conversation around mental health, breaking down stigmas and opening doors to understanding.

2. The growth of resources with PTSD Family Coach app provide tools and support for those in need.

3. Acts of kindness ripple through our communities, often starting as small gestures yet growing into waves of positive change.

Acts of Kindness: A Ripple Effect

Informed by our experiences in May 2024, we carry forward the lessons learned into June. Acts of kindness—towards ourselves and others—are noble deeds; they are the very threads to weave the fabric of a compassionate society. They are reminders how love and care may manifest in countless ways, from a listening ear to a helping hand extended in a public park.

Encouraging Learning and Growth

This blog is a platform for sharing, for expressing thankfulness, and for encouraging myself and others with empathy for successful learning. Endings are a chance for new beginnings. I have learned the importance of letting love lead the way with evidence-based practices with health science support. I learn to seek out the best in ourselves and in others, to reach out, to support, and to understand. Love is the compass to guide my path to help navigate challenges. Empathy allows us to see the world through the eyes of others, to feel their joys and their pains, and to learn from their experiences. Empathy enables me to use the lessons of May to inform and enrich the days of June for acts of kindness, moments of self-care, and steps towards healing. 

Here are some quick and easy snack ideas to keep energized throughout the day.

1. **Greek Yogurt and Honey:** A bowl of Greek yogurt drizzled with honey is not only satisfying but also packed with protein and probiotics.

2. **Veggie Sticks and Hummus:** Carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers and dip them in hummus for a crunchy and creamy treat.

3. **Nut Butter and Banana:** Spread your favorite nut butter on a banana for a dose of healthy fats and potassium.

4. **Cheese and Whole-Grain Crackers:** Pairing cheese with whole-grain crackers provides a good balance of protein and fiber.

5. **Trail Mix:** Mix together nuts, seeds, and dried fruit for a portable snack full of variety and flavor.

6. **Popcorn:** Air-popped popcorn is a whole grain and may be a light snack if you avoid heavy butter and salt.

7. **Rice Cakes and Avocado:** Top a rice cake with avocado, a sprinkle of salt, and a dash of lime juice for a snack full of healthy fats.

8. **Fruit Smoothie:** Blend your favorite fruits with some spinach and a scoop of protein powder for a quick smoothie on the go.

9. **Dark Chocolate and Almonds:** For a sweet and satisfying snack, pair a few pieces of dark chocolate with a handful of almonds.

These snack ideas are quick to prepare and also provide the nutrients your body needs to stay fueled and focused. Whether you are in need of a mid-morning boost or an afternoon pick-me-up, these snacks may help. For more inspiration, check out various online resources to offer a plethora of quick and easy snack recipes. Happy snacking

Embracing Self-Care: An Integrative Guide for a Healthier June

June brings the promise of longer days, warmer weather, and the learning opportunity to focus on self-care. Self-care is an essential aspect of maintaining both physical and mental health to benefit everyone. This month, I wish to learn a holistic approach to self-care, encompassing various aspects of life.

**Physical Activity and Nutrition**

I learn to start with the basics: aim for at least 8 hours of sleep each night to allow my body to rest and recover. Hydration is important. I keep a water bottle handy and sip throughout the day. Nutrition plays a crucial role in how we feel. I focus on eating well-balanced meals to fuel my body and mind. I try to incorporate at least 30 minutes of paced walking into my daily routine and evaluate using a heart rate monitor to stay within my optimal exercise zone.

**Mental and Emotional Well-being**

I wish to integrate mental health practices into my day with sharing my story with media, wear green for support of mental health awareness and participate in events to foster therapeutic interactions and build secure attachments. I wish to set aside time for regular breaks and ensure I have an action plan for my mental health practices. I learn asking for help is a sign of strength.

**Environmental Consciousness**

I learn to adopt the principles of reduce, reuse, and recycle to contribute to environmental health to benefit the planet and provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

**Spiritual Connection**

I learn to connect spiritually, whether through sunlight and gardening or other practices to ground myself and provide peace.

**Occupational and Intellectual Growth**

I learn to engage in learning opportunities such as CDC's Virtual Healthy School or explore PTSD Family Coach app to expand my knowledge and skills. I set goals and create an action plan with tasks assigned to due dates to track my progress.

**Consent and Comfort**

I try to seek consent before physical touch and make adjustments to ensure comfort, whether for seating arrangements or the need for pain relief. I try to communicate openly about my needs and listen to others when they express theirs.

**Inclusivity and Respect**

I try to adopt principles of inclusivity, accessibility, equality, respect, and balance in all areas of life, connect with how I feel and move my body to reduce stress and anxiety.

**Relationships and Boundaries**

I wish to improve my relationships by learning how to set boundaries kindly and compassionately. I learn to say, "I support you, yet I need..." to take care of my needs.

**Community and Support**

I wish to reach out to friends, family, your primary healthcare provider, and mental health resources with challenges

As we move into June, I wish to set intentions for my mental health practices, evaluate my growth, and find ways to help myself and others.