Posts
Back to Basics – Self-Care Practices for Caregivers
By Nene Sterling | EOON Care Blog | August 20, 2025
Caregiving is one of the most beautiful gifts of love—but let’s be honest, it’s also one of the most exhausting. Whether you’re supporting a parent in Port Harcourt or juggling your mum’s needs in Manchester, the constant care can take its toll on your body, mind, and spirit.
Today, we’re going back to basics—the core self-care routines every caregiver should have in place to avoid burnout and stay well.
🌿 A True Story: Ifeoma’s Wake-Up Call
Ifeoma, a schoolteacher in Abuja, was taking care of her ageing mother while teaching full-time and managing her household. She thought she could handle it all—until her health gave out.
One day, she collapsed at work from sheer exhaustion.
Her doctor told her what many caregivers need to hear: “You can’t give from an empty cup.”
That moment changed her life. Ifeoma started with small things—drinking more water, sleeping earlier, asking her cousin to help on weekends. Her body recovered, and so did her spirit.
❤️ Why Self-Care Must Be a Priority
From London to Lagos, caregivers often overlook their own needs. A recent UK study found that 72% of family caregivers reported anxiety and fatigue, while in Nigeria, many caregivers suffer silently without emotional or physical support.
Self-care isn’t selfish. It’s survival.
When you take care of yourself, you’re better equipped to take care of others—stronger, clearer, and more loving.
🔄 3 Simple Self-Care Habits You Can Start Today
1. The 10-Minute Mental Reset
Take 10 minutes each day to sit quietly. No chores. No screens. Just you and your breath. Whether it’s deep breathing, journaling, or silent prayer, this simple act can reduce anxiety and restore calm.
📝 Try This:
Breathe in for 4 counts, hold for 4, and exhale for 6. Repeat for 5 cycles.
2. Hydrate and Nourish
Caregivers often forget to eat or drink water. Your body needs energy to function—so treat it well!
🍲 Nigerian Tip: Drink zobo (hibiscus) without sugar for a vitamin-rich boost. Eat ugu, fish, beans, and fruits to stay energised.
3. Stay Connected
You need emotional support. Make time for a 15-minute call with a friend or sibling each week. Vent. Laugh. Cry. Talk about you, not just the person you’re caring for.
🤳🏾 UK Tip: Join a WhatsApp support group for caregivers or call the Carers UK helpline for emotional support.
💪 How to Make It Stick
-
Start small: Pick just one habit this week.
-
Use reminders: Set alarms or sticky notes.
-
Celebrate wins: Did you hydrate today? That’s a win!
🎁 Download our FREE Caregiver Wellness Planner to track your habits:
👉 www.eooncare.com
🎉 Join the #CaregiversCareChallenge
We’re inviting YOU to join our #CaregiversCareChallenge this August!
Here’s how:
-
Choose one basic self-care goal.
-
Post your progress on social media with the hashtag #CaregiversCareChallenge.
-
Tag @EOONCare so we can cheer you on!
Let’s create a ripple effect of caregiver wellness across Nigeria and the UK.
🧡 Final Thoughts
Dear caregiver, your health matters. Your peace matters. Going back to the basics isn’t a step back—it’s a powerful leap forward.
You don’t have to do it all. But you do deserve to feel whole.
EOON Care is Here to Help!
We specialise in elder care services to support family bonding and improve the quality of life for your elderly loved ones.
Let EOON Care be part of your family’s journey toward building stronger connections!
📞 Nigeria Office: +234 816 7929 521
📧 Email: info@eooncare.com
🌐 Website: www.eooncare.com
No comments:
Post a Comment