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I find that some days I can look after myself more easily than others. Today, I went to a fitness class, and it helped. This past year has been a struggle, and I generally feel depleted. I still have awhile longer in this caregiving situation, and want to make a greater effort to do something to enhance my well-being every day.

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Also Danielle, be careful doing things that add to anxiety or depression

To much computer time, to much social Media adds to my anxiety and depression. This forum is wonderful but it and others can be addicting, I'm not really sure what comes first. Am I on social media more on days that I'm having a bad day, or does social media and just the Internet in general causes me to have a worse day.

Any ways I have to balance my Internet use. Too much just isn't good for me. But a little is great

So do the things that are good for and be careful of do to much of things that are addictive
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Danielle123 Apr 12, 2024
I try to stay off FB. I don’t need to see friends with carefree lives travelling and doing all the things that I presently cannot do.
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Danielle,

You’re on the right track by exercising. You will feel so much better being physically active.

I am no longer a caregiver for my parents. The stress of caregiving definitely takes a toll on us.

Music always helps me to unwind. Doing fun things with my friends and family brings me joy.

I love to cook and I am trying my hand at growing green peppers.

I make jewelry and enjoy sewing. I am addicted to certain podcasts. It seems like there are podcasts on any topic that we are interested in. I listen to them when I soak in the tub or in the kitchen cooking.
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I went away with close friends for a mini vacation to a beautiful mountain/lake resort. I joined a gym and work out there at least 5 days a week. I saw a nutritionist and got my diet on track. I started therapy with an awesome therapist. I lost 70 pounds so far. And, I’ve started dating. My life has changed a lot and I’m not stressing about caregiving as much as before.
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Danielle123 Apr 12, 2024
Good for you! Close friendships and getting away are essential.
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I don’t enjoy this but… I’m supposed to be on a low carb, low fat diet due to pre diabetes, fatty liver, and high cholesterol. I refuse to lapse on the diet , even as I’m busy with mother. She doesn’t at all understand why I can’t just eat whatever fast food she eats. I joined a local walking group and made it to one gathering. My schedule does not mesh with theirs. So I am trying to walk more on my own at least. I listen to a LOT of music. The minute I leave her house , my stereo is playing whatever the tune of the day is… loudly. My car is the only alone time I get. I have an unemployed newly graduated computer engineer (23) and a 20 year old junior college kid at home.
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Danielle123 Apr 12, 2024
Good for you for walking on your own.
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Walking helps clear my head , reduce anxiety . In general I feel better the days I get a good walk . Purging the basement , closets is very satisfying too .
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Danielle123 Apr 12, 2024
Walking seems to be good for me, too, and it clears my head.
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I've found a male person who will spend time with my husband while I go out alone occasionally (which I haven't been able to do in years). They get along well and it will work for a while, until more care is needed.

My neighbor and I have agreed to exchange information in order to look out for each other, and we're meeting soon to do that.

Baby steps.
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Danielle123 Apr 12, 2024
Baby steps are better than no steps. Good for you.
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It's hard, I have to consciously make an effort, everyday. And some days just say heck with it and wollow in my misery. Today was a rain crappy day, and they are replacing the waterlines, so I couldn't shower, the house is dusty because of road work. So wasn't the greatest day. I did get a walk in, so that was a plus

I just try to force myself to do things that I enjoy, i enjoy cooking, walking, crafts. So many times I have to push myself to do those things.

I play my favorite music and dance like no one is watching, sing like no one is listening. Today would of been a good day to do that, would of picked me up. That what I do on my really off days.

I honestly enjoy deep cleaning sometimes.

I try to keep peace in my heart and life.

Much luck!
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Danielle123 Apr 12, 2024
I enjoy deep cleaning, too. I’m working on cultivating a sense of greater peace in my life.
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