Taking Care of yourself.

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Taking care of patients is the main focus of nurses. The concern I have is the lack of care nurses have for their selves. I would love to hear some feedback on the benefits of taking care of yourselve, how some of you do take care of yourself and are there any websites concerning this issue. Please give me any suggestions.

Warrior woman I agree that Emotional Health is important in taking care of yourself.

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Warrior woman I agree that Emotional Health is important in taking care of yourself.

Thanks. I learned that a little late in life, but that's better than not learning it at all. :chuckle

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Good topic.

We have to take a 2 hour course in school on taking care of ourself - I guess the goal is so we don't burn out as nurses:chuckle .

It really has been a good class, though. I realized how little I was doing for myself. I am now eating better: all organic foods, (OK, family is eating better too) and have started a basic excercise program. Am also finding time on a weekly basis to visit with a friend (lunch, coffee) - anything to break up the studying and family routine, demands that others make on me.

Excercise is the hardest part, though I spend a lot of time thinking about it - if only that would count for something:rolleyes: .

SJ

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Specializes in Specializes in L/D, newborn, GYN, LTC, Dialysis.

I am slowly but surely realizing what should be an obvious reality. No one will take care of me BUT me and I am all I have. It's really that simple. NO job is worth my wellbeing. And my family are learning that when Mom cares for herself, she is much better able to care for them. But I am a work in progress, and it is not happening overnight. I just dont' want to reach my middle years a bitter, fried, dried up, used up and unhappy old lady. It's really that simple and it transcends nursing in its size and scope, my need to love myself more.

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I'm notorious for not taking care of myself and looking after others first. However, I do make sure I find a few moments for me. Late at night after everyone's settled for the night and I've got some time, I'm usually at the computer writing. During the winter months, I bowl at least one league (usually two). And all year round, I go to a martial arts class (Tai Ji) once a week. I probably could give up the bowling, but I'm adament about the martial arts class. That is strictly my time!

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Specializes in 5 yrs OR, ASU Pre-Op 2 yr. ER.

I drink water only, might throw mandarin oranges or lemons in it.

I eat the recommended amounts of the food groups

I reverse lunch and dinner. I eat something light for dinner.

I come home from work, sit and do nothing for an hour.

I put heavy cream on my feet, arms and hands at night.

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I am slowly but surely realizing what should be an obvious reality. No one will take care of me BUT me and I am all I have. It's really that simple. NO job is worth my wellbeing. And my family are learning that when Mom cares for herself, she is much better able to care for them. But I am a work in progress, and it is not happening overnight. I just dont' want to reach my middle years a bitter, fried, dried up, used up and unhappy old lady. It's really that simple and it transcends nursing in its size and scope, my need to love myself more.

Amen to this!! Esp the part about if Mom is cared for, she's much more able to care for others. I notice how I'm so much more energized after I've had some "me time" and then can refocus back to the family. Took a long time to realize that the kids didn't need me 24/7.

:icon_hug:

SJ

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