OK coming in real hot with this one but... I'm not going to apologize for taking care of myself while I take care of my loved one with dementia Alzheimer's. I know that in order to be the best caregiver possible, I need to take care of myself first and foremost. That's why I've developed a series of realistic ways to show up for myself on a daily basis.

Intentional and Mindful Acts

Whether it's moving my body with yoga, journaling bi-weekly, or curating a spa-like ambiance in my showers (because I don't have time for long baths, caregivers, you feel me!?), I make sure to carve out time for self-care. I also practice mindful eating and when I know I may have a hard week/day approaching, I order healthy meals through subscription plans like CookUnity.

These small but mighty practices help me to stay present, grounded, and sane. All of these different facets to my self-care routine amount to making sure that I am taking care of myself in realistic ways so that when it comes time to show up for my loved one - I can give them all of me. Not a burnt out version of me. And that is something I will never apologize for.

5 Realistic Ways I Show Up For Myself

But intentional and mindful acts of self-care can go way beyond just yoga and meal prepping. Here are 5 realistic ways I show up for myself, even on my hardest days: 

1. I take at least 10 minutes for myself first thing in the morning.

2. I give myself permission to say NO.

3. I make time for at least 30 minutes of uninterrupted personal time every day.

4. I celebrate my wins, no matter how small.

5. I practice self-compassion, always.

No matter how full our plates are, we have to remember to take care of ourselves too. So go ahead and intentionally add some self-care into your day today, you deserve it!

Until next time, xo Nikki 💋

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TTYL, XOXO Nikki♥♥