Hiking Tools for Caregivers
Feeling out of breath, physically exhausted and scared by my surroundings…I knew I needed to keep my focus on what’s right in front of me.
One step at a time.
If I looked too far ahead or if I looked to the side, there was a reminder of how close I was to the edge of danger of …. falling off the mountain.
Two weeks ago, I went hiking in the red rocks of Sedona, Arizona with my husband and two of our closest friends. One terrifying yet empowering day, we walked +20,000 steps and climbed the highest mountain I’ve ever hiked.
There were many moments I thought…I won't make it to the top.
And if I didn’t have the support of those around me, I honestly wouldn’t have kept going.
But, by having support, taking breaks, and repeating the mantra of ‘one step at a time’, I made it to the top.
Capturing this moment of celebration of making it through this hiking challenge, will remind me - I can do hard things.
As I was climbing down that mountain, I thought how this experience captured some of the same feelings I’ve had as a caregiver.
Feeling out of breath from running around taking caring of someone else's multiple needs.
Physically exhausted from being a ‘sandwich caregiver’, and still taking care of a child at home.
And scared. Scared of the days of the uncertainty. Scared of not knowing what to do next.
Friend, caregiver....I want to encourage YOU.
Using these tools, you can keep going - even on those days when you feel you can’t take another step.
Here are tools that can help you too:
Support - both physically and emotionally
Resources - to keep you equipped
Time for Rest – taking breaks helps you keep going
Mindset- don’t look too far ahead. One step at a time
Celebration - anchor in that feeling of conquering a tough challenge
Feeling equipped for life’s challenges, can make a world of difference in your journey.
Do you need support with your current challenge? Let's talk.
