You’re a Rockstar, Not a Robot!
Are you the one who’s juggling a million tasks, navigating the FASD rollercoaster, and still managing to keep your sense of humor (mostly) intact. It’s time for a little self-compassion party, and you’re the guest of honor!
1. Feelings Fiesta
First up, let’s celebrate ALL the feels! Sad, mad, glad, or “I don’t even know what this emotion is” – they’re all invited. No judgment here, just a big ol’ emotional conga line!
2. Challenge Champion
Newsflash: Caring for someone with FASD is like trying to solve a Rubik’s cube blindfolded. On a unicycle. In a hurricane. You’re doing great, champ!
3. Compassionate Moments
Take a compassionate minute. Focus on your breath. Ignore the chaos. Pretend you’re on a tropical beach. (The screaming in the background? Just… enthusiastic seagulls.)
4. Positive Self-Talk Karaoke
Time to belt out some self-love lyrics! “I’m every caregiver, it’s all in meeeee!” You’re not Whitney Houston? Doesn’t matter, sing it anyway!
5. Realistic Expectations R Us
Remember, you’re aiming for “good enough,” not “Pinterest perfect.” Did everyone survive today? Gold star for you!
6. Self-Care Shenanigans
Self-care isn’t selfish, it’s necessary! Whether it’s a bubble bath, a Netflix binge, or eating ice cream straight from the tub – you do you, boo!
7. Connection Collection
Find your tribe of fellow FASD caregivers. Share war stories. Laugh. Cry. Share memes. Repeat.
8. Knowledge Ninja
The more you know about FASD, the more you realize it’s not you, it’s the brain difference. Science for the win!
9. Victory Dance
Did your kiddo remember to brush their teeth without a reminder? Time for a happy dance! No victory is too small to celebrate.
10. Pro Help is Pro Fun
Therapists are like personal trainers for your mind. Get that brain in shape!
11. Worth-O-Meter
You’re not just a caregiver, you’re a whole amazing person! Your worth-o-meter is always at maximum, baby!
12. Gratitude Giggles
Find something to be grateful for every day. Even if it’s just “Yay, I found matching socks this morning!”Remember, dear caregiver, you’re doing an incredible job. You’re not perfect, you’re perfectly human. And that’s more than enough.
So go forth, practice that self-compassion, and rock on with your awesome self! And if you need more ideas here are a nifty fifty! 50 little things a person can do to be kind to themselves when caring for someone with FASD:
- Take a 5-minute breather outside
- Enjoy a cup of your favorite tea or coffee
- Listen to a calming song
- Practice deep breathing exercises
- Write in a gratitude journal
- Take a warm bath
- Go for a short walk
- Call a supportive friend
- Do a quick stretching routine
- Read a few pages of an enjoyable book
- Light a scented candle
- Practice mindfulness meditation for 5 minutes
- Give yourself a hand massage
- Watch a funny video clip
- Eat a healthy snack
- Do a quick facial massage
- Look at photos of happy memories
- Spend a few minutes in nature
- Try a new herbal tea blend
- Write down three things you’re proud of
- Do a quick yoga pose
- Listen to a short guided relaxation
- Cuddle with a pet
- Apply a soothing hand cream
- Sit in silence for a few minutes
- Write a kind note to yourself
- Do a puzzle for a few minutes
- Practice positive self-talk
- Take a power nap
- Enjoy a piece of dark chocolate
- Do a quick doodle or coloring page
- Listen to nature sounds
- Give yourself a foot rub
- Look at the stars or clouds
- Try a new essential oil scent
- Write down a personal goal
- Do a quick declutter of a small space
- Practice a hobby for 15 minutes
- Take a few deep breaths with eyes closed
- Write a thank-you note to someone
- Do a quick face mask treatment
- Listen to an inspirational podcast
- Sit in the sun for a few minutes
- Write down a positive affirmation
- Try a new stretching exercise
- Look at pictures of cute animals
- Practice progressive muscle relaxation
- Enjoy a piece of fruit mindfully
- Write down something you’re looking forward to
- Give yourself a hug and say “You’re doing great”
Self-care doesn’t have to be time-consuming or elaborate. These small acts of kindness towards yourself can help manage stress and improve overall well-being while caring for someone with FASD.
TODAY’S NOTE: “Breathe Mom, just breathe. – In Solidarity, Liz (1986-July 6, 2024)”
Red Shoes Rock 