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AIR: that which sustains; a vital
essence
"Here's what's different about what you do, Amy. You
gave me space - to think, to find the answers inside me, to accept what came out. You do it all so perfectly, and just as
it should be. You just do what needs to be done and say, 'Come back when you need to.' You're like the old country doctor.
Thank you, Amy."
- Bobbie Woods, R.N.
Perhaps you are . . .
caring for someone struggling
with a
lengthy illness . . .
facing the imminent loss
of a loved one . . .
living with your own health
issues
while taking care of another . . .
The joy and
privilege of caregiving is undeniably accompanied (and often overshadowed) by the daily trials and tribulations of that caring.
During the process, those giving sustained care to others are very likely to experience feelings of inadequacy, self-judgment,
guilt, and fear, not to mention becoming emotionally, spiritually, and physically exhausted.
As a caregiver, you also
have vital needs. If you become depleted, you're unable to give the care you want and need to give. As in the story of the
mother and baby traveling on an airplane when the oxygen mask suddenly drops down
from above, the caregiver (like the
mother) needs not just the first draught of air from the mask before placing it
across the nose and mouth of the baby,
but many more deep inhalations along the way.
What makes up your deep draughts of Air?
Do you allow yourself the
emotional freedom to find that Air?
How easy is it to allow yourself Air without feeling that you ought not enjoy it,
or ought not experience Air while someone you love is suffering?
Allowing yourself the space to take in the vital
essence of Air through the listening and compassionate care of an experienced counselor is one of the best gifts you can give
to yourself, and to everyone else in your life. By taking in this nourishment, your ability to continue refreshed and rejuvenated
in your caregiving role is greatly enhanced.
For the sake of you and those in your care, I invite you to consider
AirGiving for Caregiving as a part of your own care plan.
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