Being a caregiver to an aging parent can be one of the hardest things you’ll ever do in life. On average, caregivers spend 24 hours of their week performing caregiver tasks. Being a caregiver can be very stressful. Sometimes being a caregiver causes people to ignore their own health and give up things they enjoy. As a result, 40 to 70 percent of caregivers experience depression. One of the things that doctors may suggest during recovery from depression is the use of relaxation techniques. Below are some suggestions for techniques that may help you to relax and reduce symptoms of depression.

Meditation

There are lots of different ways to meditate, so you may need to try a few to find the one that works for you. If you’d like to try meditation, but don’t know where to start, there are places you can go to learn. Your doctor or therapist may be able to suggest a place.

Breathing Techniques

When your caregiver duties start to cause you stress, try doing some deep breathing exercises. Taking slow, deep breaths can help you to relax your muscles and release anxiety. While breathing, try to clear your mind and think only about your breathing.

Yoga

Yoga can be a great way to relax. It combines breathing with exercise, meditation, and relaxation. You can try yoga using an online video or by taking a class. Most communities have a yoga studio nearby and many yoga studios offer classes aimed specifically at relaxation or stress reduction.

Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy uses scents to relieve stress and help you to relax. Some scents that may enhance relaxation are lavender, lemon, bergamot, and jasmine. You can use candles or purchase essential oils.

Journaling

Keeping a journal can help you to release some of your anxiety and stress. In a journal, you can express your emotions honestly, helping you to let them go. Journaling doesn’t have to be time consuming. Just spend a few minutes at the end of your day, or whenever you’re feeling stressed, to write down what is bothering you and how you’re feeling.

Warmth

Cozy warmth can help you to relax. Try taking a warm bath. Add some essential oils or scented bubble bath to increase the relaxation factor. If you don’t have time for a bath, sipping some warm cocoa or a cup of hot tea can also help.

Sources:  http://www.webmd.com/depression/guide/depression-recovery-relaxation-exercises#1
https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/six-relaxation-techniques-to-reduce-stress
https://www.everydayhealth.com/hs/major-depression/relaxation-techniques-for-depression/
http://www.webmd.com/healthy-aging/caregiving-depression#1
https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/urban-survival/201604/six-aromatherapy-essential-oils-stress-relief-and-sleep

If you or an aging loved one are in need of Caregiver Services in Easton PA or the surrounding areas, contact the caring professionals at Star Multi Care Services today at (631)956-8835. We are the Right Choice for Home Health Care Services!

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Stephen Sternbach

CEO at Extended Family Care Services

With over 35 years of experience, Stephen Sternbach has been the Chairman of the Board of Directors, President, and Chief Executive Officer of Extended Family Care Services since 1987. After the sale of the New York and New Jersey operations of Extended Family Care Services, Sternbach brought the company private where he remains President and CEO of this 40-million dollar company. With Sternbach at the helm, Extended Family Care Services employs more than 650 employees, in six offices throughout Florida, Pennsylvania, Ohio and New York.

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