As health care professionals, the transition from the end of a shift to unwinding at home can be a tricky one. It is not always immediately easy to relax as the pressures and emotional strains of the day linger. To support all of our key workers it is necessary to have coping strategies to be able to unwind at home, let go of the day and recharge, ready for the next shift. Remember, we are here to lend a listening ear not just to nurses but to midwives, health care assistants and social carers.
Here at Nurse Lifeline we want to share some tailored tips to the unique needs of our caregivers to support this important need to relax. Stress left unaddressed can build up and up and spill over, resulting in poor mental health and physical side effects.
Create a Sacred Space:
Designate a tranquil corner in your home as your personal sanctuary. Whether it's a cosy nook adorned with soft pillows and scented candles or a serene garden retreat, having a designated space for relaxation can signal to your mind and body that it's time to unwind. Here is a space, just for you, to read, sit, have a cup of tea, whatever takes your fancy.
Embrace Mindfulness Practices:
Engage in mindfulness activities to ground yourself in the present moment and alleviate stress. Whether it's practising meditation, deep breathing exercises, or guided imagery, mindfulness techniques can help cultivate a sense of calm amidst the chaos of demanding work and home schedules.
Indulge in Self-Care Rituals:
Prioritise self-care by indulging in activities that nourish your body, mind, and soul. Treat yourself to a luxurious bath infused with essential oils, pamper your skin with a soothing face mask, or treat yourself to an early night.
Connect with Nature:
Reconnecting with nature is hugely beneficial – think about how you can spend some time outdoors, whether it's taking a leisurely stroll in the park, tending to a garden, sitting on a park bench or going for a jog. Surrounding yourself in nature can rejuvenate your spirit and replenish your energy.
Engage in Creative Expression:
Express yourself creatively as a means of relaxation and self-expression. Whether it's painting, writing, playing music, or crafting, engaging in creative pursuits can provide a therapeutic outlet for processing emotions and channelling your innermost thoughts. Keeping a journal is a great way to offload the day's stresses and also evaluate how you have progressed or how your feelings have changed over time. Papier do beautiful wellbeing journals which allow you to think about what you are grateful for – those small wins of each day. Focusing on the blessings in your life can shift your perspective and promote a sense of contentment.
Establish Boundaries:
Set boundaries to protect your time and energy outside of work. Learn to say no to additional commitments that may encroach upon your much-needed downtime. Prioritise activities and relationships that nourish your wellbeing and bring you joy – try not to feel guilty about turning something down. Sometimes you need down-time for yourself and that is OK.
Seek Support:
Reach out to friends, family, or fellow colleagues for support and companionship. Whether it's venting about the challenges of your day, seeking advice, or simply sharing a laugh, connecting with others who understand the demands of your profession can provide solace and solidarity. Our call line is here to offer a listening ear – run by peers and those that really do ‘get it’ – we are here 7-9pm every week day evening.
Unplug and Disconnect:
Create boundaries around technology and screen-time to prevent work-related stress from encroaching into your personal life. Set designated times to disconnect from emails, texts, and social media, allowing yourself to fully immerse in restorative activities without distractions. It’s good to take a step away from those stimulating screens!
Prioritise Sleep:
Make quality sleep a non-negotiable priority in your self-care routine. Create a sleep-friendly environment by dimming lights, minimising noise, and establishing a relaxing bedtime routine. Aim for at least seven to eight hours of uninterrupted sleep each night to allow your body and mind to fully recharge.
For all of us, sometimes we don’t take heed of the importance of self-care but for those in the demanding profession of healthcare, relaxation and self-care is not just a luxury; it's a vital component of maintaining overall health and wellbeing. By implementing these top tips for relaxation at home, health care professionals can cultivate a nurturing environment that supports their physical, emotional, and spiritual needs, ensuring they can continue to thrive both personally and professionally.
If this blog has resonated with you and you’d like to reach out – please feel free to call us on 0808 801 0455 Monday-Friday, 7-9pm, or email alex@nurselifeline.org.uk to arrange a call back.