Wellness

I attended a workshop on wellness and had an opportunity to talk about the different areas we need to nuture to stay well. It's important to nurture ourselves nutritionally, spiritually, mentally,physically, sexually and financially. Often times, we manage to neglect one or more areas for a prolonged period of time and we are out of balance.

Ask yourself, what areas am I paying attention to, and when? Why are those particular areas being given more attention, are they more important? What can I do to address the areas of self-nuturing that are being neglected?

It may take some time to pinpoint what areas in our lives are being neglected but, unless we put the time in and "check-in" occassionally, we are harming our well-being. It's easy to forget that we need to take care of ourselves when there are so many people relying on us for so much. Take care of yourself and set time aside, each day, to "check-in" and see what you've done to nuture all the important areas of your life-you'll be happier and healthier and so will everyone else you care for daily!

Need for Support

I spent quite a bit of time talking to a friend of mine regarding the challenge our family is facing. My 64 year old sister was diagnosed with Stage 2 Dementia last November. Of course, I immediately set about learning what I could about this disease, how it would affect my sister and her family. I studied the articles on how to communicate effectively with dementia patients at each stage and reviewed the stages of grief so I could help my brother-in-law and nephew understand more about what's happening.

As much as all this research helped, I shared it with my sister, even though she may not remember it. I copied the information for my family and discussed the information with them. I explored what services may be available in my sister's area and gave that information to her family. I pray every day for them all, and for us all because eventually, my sister will be lost to us-she may be here physically, but she will be gone as far as her wonderful personality and connections are concerned. My friend, having gone through this devastating loss with her dad, called me and talked to me about her experiences. She sent me some wonderful articles to read, she recommended a very up-lifting book that helps me to understand what's coming, she listened and shared what I needed to do to keep everyone safe as this disease continues. Most important, we shared our feelings and made plans for our own relationship and health.

I occurs to me that the Good Lord makes sure the people and resources we need in our lives are near by, we just need to be open to them! Everyone needs support, there is always something going on, usually many things at once, and we often lose track of our own needs. Don't be timid about talking with God,friends, loved ones, life coaches, clergy, counsellors-whoever you feel you can trust and can help support you and help you make a plan for your own self-care, everyone is here for a reason and ready to help. I can't help others if I don't take care of myself and neither can you!