Anyone that knows me, knows I love assembling jigsaw puzzles. They are my favorite hobby. I think everyone needs a hobby, especially caregivers. For the millions of caregivers worldwide who provide unpaid care to an adult or child, stress and anxiety are negative health effects that may affect the level of caregiving they are providing. Family caregivers need relief from the stressful duties of caring for loved ones and one of the ways to accomplish this is to engage in an enjoyable activity. Recent studies show that individuals who are involved in meaningful activities are less stressed and happier. It does not matter what hobbies you choose, the act of doing something you like to do slows down heart rates and is calming. If you are a caregiver and you had a hobby prior to becoming a caregiver make sure you continue with your hobbies. Taking time out of your day to engage your hobby will not only relieve you of the stress or anxiety you feel but also help you be a better caregiver by helping you relax and re-energize.
The job of caregiving is not only physically demanding but also takes a toll on your mental and psychological health. Whether you have a full-time job and care for loved ones after work or took time off to become a full-time caregiver, there is no doubt that you need to have “take care time” every so often, and do something for just yourself. My jigsaw puzzles provide an outlet and a sense of accomplishment. They work my brain and give me time to calm myself. I believe every caregiver needs an activity that stimulates your mind, improves functioning, and assists in providing a better quality of care for your loved ones.
Jigsaw puzzling, reading, painting, and exercising are just a few activities you can share with the person you are caring for, depending on their physical condition. If you are struggling with finding time for your hobby you can include them and possibly make it their hobby also. I plan to add a new hobby (gardening) this spring and I am hoping my daughter will join me and enjoy putting her hands in the dirt with me. The sun and fresh air will benefit both of us.
Being a caregiver is not an easy job. It can burn you out over time and before you know it you will be the one needing care so I encourage you to take up a hobby for your self-care and create new routines and habits.