Remembering Ourselves

Remembering Ourselves
            “I’ll be able to read books again one day when I don’t have so much work.”
            “Going for a fitness class would be so helpful, but I don’t have time.”
            “I can take a trip some day in the future. I need to stay here to take care of everyone.”
            Putting our own needs by the wayside is a common issue for caregivers. Like the often-cited line about parents putting their oxygen mask on first so they can take care of their children in an airplane emergency, caregivers often need reminding to take care of ourselves. That’s what will allow us to stay mentally and physically healthy enough to continue taking care of others.
            The role of caregiver comes in countless forms and variations, including parents of young children, adult children taking care of aging parents, and situations requiring exceptional levels of care for loved ones facing physical, mental, developmental, or cognitive challenges of all varieties. It also includes pet owners.
            Caregivers finding backup support so we can take even a short break is important, but it sometimes feels impossible.
            When we can’t get a real break, looking at images of places that bring joy and hope can lift us up. Looking up trails I’d like to explore is one of my helpful escapes.
            May we all remember to take a moment each day to do something comforting and uplifting for ourselves. Keep putting one foot forward!
            This week’s HikingAutism Hike Notes from the archives is Kent Lake from Shafter Bridge, a site in the Marin Watershed that reminds me of the beautiful Adirondacks where I grew up.
 
This week’s Hike Notes from the Archives:
(Original Hike Notes 112): Kent Lake from Shafter Bridge
 
            Click Insights/Hike Update News for inspiring reflections. Browse hikes and photo galleries via the main Hikes page or the Hike Search by Area (was Quick View Hike List) page. Click World Walks to see or share favorite walks from readers! Stay in touch with Lisa Louis and HikingAutism via Contact. The Links page lists a loose collection of helpful information links.
            Check the Home page for the broader background story. Please feel free to share, and follow on Twitter at @HikingAutism