When caring, don’t forget yourself-Theresa Coomer

Self care is a buzz world that seems to be humming everywhere lately. And I am glad it is. I have been hearing about the importance of self-care for years in the caregiver community. Teachers are caregivers to so many. The care for their students, some of those parents and their colleagues on a regular basis. They give so much of themselves. But they are also sometimes one of the essential thing keeping those they care for going, especially now during a global pandemic. So of course they will double their duties to teach both in person and remote learners if that is what is asked of them. Of course they will keep all of their students individual schedules, that are constantly changing, to help keep them on track if needed. Of course they will hold a small group through their lunch hour to ensure that group gets the extra support they need. Of course they will meet with students or parents on an individual zoom after school when asked. Because this COVID world is difficult to navigate as an adult, and we love our students and their families. That burden of care is hard, even from afar, but we will keep doing it. 

Caregivers experience burnout from time to time because we put others before ourselves, often. It is in our nature and it is a very difficult habit to break. So, I know that I have to be reminded to take the time necessary for myself. As they say, you can not pour from an empty cup. This self care comes in many forms. Sometimes it is a virtual spa night with my sister, where we all do deep moisturizing face masks. Sometimes it is paying my bills on the 1st of the month to a.) get a task off my to do list and b.) removes a major anxiety trigger. Sometimes it is taking five extra minutes to just be in the shower and let warm water cascade off my tight shoulders and letting them release and loosen. Sometimes it is setting aside a few moments to let my mind wander across a page with a pencil as my guide, just seeing what words take form.

Whatever I am choosing to immerse myself in for what feels like stolen moments are essential. They make it possible to continue to shoulder the heavy burdens and keep the space to serve others open.

Running With Care -Mary Caffero

Self-care. I read about it and think about it all the time. It’s so important always but it’s extra important now. After my gym was forced to close in March I stayed committed to my workout routine. I did every single workout posted by my coach, if I didn’t have the equipment, I modified it. I found ways to make it work even when the weather didn’t cooperate. When I learned my gym was closing permanently it was hard for me to stay motivated. I wrote down some of my favorite workouts and created a schedule for myself but it was different when I knew I was the only one doing it. These shoes were one of my favorite purchases this past spring....after staying committed to my at home CrossFit routine I couldn’t wait to get back to the gym and see what I could do WITH the equipment...and who wouldn’t have gains with these awesome new shoes? Right?!? Well...somewhere after school began and the time changing I lost my motivation. I wouldn’t get to wear my new shoes to the gym and I really missed lifting heavy weights and seeing how many pull-ups I could do. I am slowly finding my motivation to get back into it, encouraged by what I can do instead of what I used to be able to do. I know my mind is steadier and my mood is better when I have a regular workout routine So, when the school days are long and my evenings are filled with grading and prepping for the next day. I put on my new home gym shoes and get my sweat on. It’s my form of self care...I know it’s what’s best for me, but man, is it hard sometimes. For the last three weeks I have made time to put these shoes on, get moving and every time I feel grateful that I have my health and surrounded by love, in person and virtually.