Gentle, Kind, and Conscious Caregiving Through the Holidays
Two young kids stirring mixing bowls in sweaters around the holiday season.
Written By Claire K. McKeever-Burgett
If you find yourself a caretaker this holiday season–of children, of siblings, of parents, of partners, of family members, of friends, of yourself–you might experience feelings of dread, overwhelm, confusion, anger, sadness, excitement, anticipation, and joy. And you might feel all of these all at once, which can add to the overwhelm and confusion.
What are we to do when our emotions seem at odds? How are we to be when everything happens all at once?
Wherever you are in your caretaking journey–wiping mouths and bodies, praying for a cure, worried about finances, longing for quiet, dancing in the kitchen–take a small, simple moment to pause, place one hand on your heart, one on your belly, and say to yourself, “I am loved. I am safe. I am supported.”
Breathe deeply in; exhale deeply out.
Say it again, if needed. Say it as many times as it takes for you to believe it to be true.
Then, when you feel like you can breathe more deeply, make your way to the following resources that can help:
Good Inside by Dr. Becky Kennedy (Pro Tip: Follow her on Instagram for daily support, ideas, and inspiration here.)
This holiday season and always, you are loved; you are safe; you are supported.