Written by Elizabeth Bishop Self-care is a buzzword right now, but what does self-care really mean? For many busy caregivers, self-care is an afterthought. However, with high rates of caregiver burnout, taking care of your mental and physical health is so very important. COVID-19 has brought many challenges and uncertainties in relation to caregiving, but […]
Self-care
Navigating the Challenges of Work and Caregiving
Twenty-eight percent of Canadians are balancing unpaid caregiving for family or friends with work. While caregiving can be rewarding as you support the person you love and care for, the strains of caregiving can take a toll. Furthermore, 25% of caregivers have reported a change in their employment experience since becoming caregivers, including: Turning down […]
Taking a Break: 7 Tips for a Caregiver Vacation
As we near the last bit of summer, the desire for family caregivers to take time for a vacation, staycation or break can be top of mind. Going from contemplation of a vacation to implementation can create a great deal of stress for both the caregiver and the people they care for. Common concerns and […]
Part 1: Why Boundary Setting is Important for Caregivers
“You have to be able to set boundaries, otherwise the rest of the world is telling you who you are and what you should be doing. You can still be a nice person and set boundaries.” – Oprah Winfrey One of the most common challenges that we hear from caregivers is how difficult it is […]
The Myths of Mindfulness
Written by Kate Landreth, Education and Learning Lead with FCBC In the past year I completed an 8-week training in Mindfulness Self Compassion, and initially I was hesitant and skeptical about participating. While I practice and teach yoga and mindfulness daily, my concern with exploring mindfulness self-compassion was that it might erode my inner taskmaster […]
How do I find a therapist or counsellor?
You may feel you would like to talk with a therapist or counsellor, but do not know where to begin in your search. Therapy can be beneficial for caregivers who have become isolated, overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or who lack support from others. However, it can also be preventative, part of a caregivers self-care and mental […]
Adventures from Home During COVID-19
Are you missing your regular outings and explorations? Adventure from the comfort of your home during this time of physical distancing to alleviate boredom and stress! These are great virtual activities for you as a caregivers and those you care for. Stay creative and engaged to take care of yourself and your well-being. From museums […]
Taking Care of Yourself: Self-Care Strategies for Family and Friend Caregivers
Family caregiving can happen suddenly or as part of a crisis. It is often unpredictable. Taking on the role of a caregiver often happens when life is already full and is squeezed into a busy life without letting anything else go. Caregiving can be one of the most rewarding gifts you can give to another […]
Mindfulness and Gentle Chair Yoga
Kate Landreth, Education & Learning Lead at Family Caregivers of BC offers a mindfulness practice and seated yoga movement practice. Follow along from the comfort of your home and take time and space for yourself during your caregiving journey. [embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kjYOByVI-JU[/embedyt]
Setting Boundaries Takes Practice
“Sure, Mom, I’ll help.” As soon as she spoke the words, Mary thought, “I do not have the time or energy for this! Why did I agree to help?” Sometimes we say “yes” automatically because we are people-pleasers. We could be feeling guilty or emotionally tied to a situation and, before we even think about […]