Merriam Webster defines recess as follows:
- the act of receding
- a hidden, secret, or secluded place
- indention or cleft
- a suspension of business
As children we all knew recess as play time. As adults we tend to forget about how refreshing that break in our day was. My challenge to you as a caregiver is to make a list of what refreshes you and keep it handy for when you need it.
I will share part of my list:
- listen to praise music
- enjoy a cup of hot tea or coffee
- jump in the pool
- pick a bouquet of flowers
- take a nap
- dark chocolate
Go ahead. Grab a pen and start your list. When you are finished, do something on the list. You deserve a break today, so get up and get away. Please avoid the place your mind went to and grab a healthy snack instead though.
After one stressful week when my caregiving was long distance, I was exhausted. The drive back home was 6 hours that day because traffic was heavy. I pulled into an outlet shopping center to use the restroom and walk in a safe place. I noticed a vending machine and a massage chair in the restroom/refreshment area. I was so exhausted that I didn’t care what anyone else thought. This old girl dug in her purse for a few dollars, grabbed an ice cream sandwich from the vending machine, plopped into the massage chair and closed her eyes. Three minutes of bliss might have turned into three hours of bliss had I not run out of one dollar bills and was afraid of falling asleep.
Caregivers cannot afford luxury spas and have little time to enjoy such pleasures. It is important to carve out time to be refreshed though. You can not function as a caregiver without having a retreat to run to at times.
Find a symposium or conference for caregivers in your area if you can. Sometimes these are free for caregivers. If you happen to live in the northwest corner of Alabama there is one the first Friday in November. This year it is November 1st at Cross Point Church. The Walk to End Alzheimers in Florence is Sept 15th. Both are excellent places to meet other caregivers.
Time for recess! You need it my friend.
Word for Today
But I will sing of your strength, in the morning I will sing of your love; for you are my fortress, my refuge in times of trouble. Psalm 59:16
Song for Today ( fun song reminding us of the hope God gives)
Prayer for Today
Our Heavenly Father,
Today we just pause to thank you for the hope you offer us. We are grateful for having your arms as a safe place to run to when we need a break. Refresh our hearts and souls so that we can carry out your work in a way to bring you glory.
Renew our strength. Restore our joy. Send us out again fueled with your love to pour out.
Amen
Walking Them Home 