Providing care for someone with disabilities, special needs, and complex conditions is hard. Mysterious sensory issues, counterproductive meetings, specialists and paperwork is all exhausting. It’s lonely to feel that your loved one is not getting their needs met. Despite your efforts, despite well-meaning providers. It’s isolating to feel that you know this person better than anyone…so who else could possibly have any better answers, let alone provide any help?
Caregiving can take a toll. I know the sleepless nights in the hospital hurt not only your weary eyes and aching back, but the heaviness in your heart as well. I’ve endured the months of waiting for that specialist appointment, only to leave the office feeling even more confused and frustrated. I’m all too familiar with the despicable systems and infernal paperwork that take hours of patience and determination, leaving me sapped of all strength for anything else.
And yet, I know the raucous joy of finding something that delighted my kid. The moments of connection when we can share in something wonderful. The realization that something I did years ago actually made a positive impact. The understanding that this is my journey, my loved ones have their journey, and we are fortunate to have each other.
Here, I share my journey, my struggles, my successes. Years of study and gleaned insights have yielded the ability to uplift myself and those around me. This is the result of years of study, lived experiences, and this ongoing navigating of life.
I don’t pretend to have all the answers. Hardships will continue, just as glimmers and triumphs will continue.
It’s all of it. All of it is welcome. All of you, your whole self, is welcome.
What is yoga and how do caregivers benefit?
Yoga is an ancient system of wellness for giving excellent care to the mind, body, and spirit. Caregivers are busy and often depleted while caring for others. Yoga can be your go-to self-care method to feel uplifted, connected and capable. A yoga practice might involve moving your body into yoga poses (asana), deep breathing techniques (pranayama), meditation, affirmations, mindfulness, the list goes on! I work with caregivers to explore what aspects of yoga are feasible, enjoyable, and leave you feeling awesome!
What is Ayurveda and how does it help caregivers?
Ayurveda is the sister science of yoga. It is all about longevity and feeling your best not just in the here and now, but as you move through life’s season. As a caregiver, you might feel that the demands upon your time and energy are overwhelming. Ayurveda explores our daily rhythms with curiosity and intentionality. Practicing ayurveda might look like drinking tea, massaging your skin, noticing how you eat meals, or sitting in nature. I work with caregivers to explore the body’s natural tendencies and to feel at ease in your day-to-day.
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“I am not who I used to be and that is a beautiful thing.
And even here, in new unknowns, I know: I am still blooming.”
-Morgan Harper Nichols