HealthLinks Charleston March/April 2023

64 | www. Char l es tonPhys i c i ans . com | www.Hea l thL i nksChar l es ton . com “[Caregivers] are constantly caring for others and are very quick to forget about ourselves,” said Perry. “But, at the end of the day, if I am not looking inward and constantly assessing myself, then how am I going to be the best version of myself to then be able to care for others in a positive and beneficial way?” Perry cites yoga as a powerful tool for a whole wellness experience that feeds mind, body and spirit. Yoga is her “jam” – she incorporates it into her wellness practice five to six days a week. She also remains conscientious about food and everyday products going in and on her body. Attention to the body’s condition is instrumental in choosing care proportional to a caregiver’s needs. “Our nervous system responds to everything in life, including stressors, whether good or bad. It’s important to take care of that part of ourselves,” explained Dr. Sarah K. Wharton of Cypress Chiropractic & Wellness in Charleston. Dr. Wharton provides chiropractic care to many caregivers, namely nurses, who often work long, awkward hours. Their work is strenuous and may require them to lift and move their patients, she added. Many are on their feet much of the day. “I’ll see your typical low back pain, low back subluxation and lots of tension in the lower neck and shoulders,” she explained. “It’s hard for caregivers to make time because they are working so hard, but it would benefit them to get their nervous systems cleared of interference,” said Dr. Wharton. In addition, Dr. Wharton believes caregivers should make time for quality, conscious rest. “Showing up for our patients is not just the skills we have. When I have a very busy day or week, I, too, have to recharge. Much like a phone battery, if you use the battery down to the lowest point, it takes longer to recharge,” she noted. Connecting with nature and rest without distractions should also be part of caregivers’ self-care routine, according to Dr. Wharton. “I find that it’s very important to find time in nature,” she asserted. “Health care professionals are typically in offices with fluorescent lighting and in concrete buildings for hours on end. I encourage my patients to get out in nature – a park, the beach or even simply walking around their neighborhood. Exercising keeps us strong both physically and mentally.” Like Perry, Dr. Wharton cites the importance of a healthy, balanced diet for health care professionals and caregivers of all kinds. “The fuel that you put into your body is very important,” she explained. “We are using our resources to help others, so we have to fuel ourselves as often and as best as possible. Hydration, fruits and vegetables, lean proteins – what we put into our bodies is our fuel.” Dr. Wharton has seen many positive results both in herself and her patients who prioritize themselves and their well-being. From feeling more energized and making time for things they enjoy to reducing chronic pain and stress, self-care improves caregivers’ overall quality of life. After all, Perry notes, “Caring for ourselves is one of the best gifts we can give to our students and communities.” Associate Editor Molly Sherman contributed to this story. Resources for Nurses and Family Caregivers: ama-assn.org, nursingworld.org, registerednursing.org caregiving.org, caregiver.org, caregiveraction.org Check with your Employee Assistance Program for additional resources. Our nervous system responds to everything in life, including stressors, whether good or bad. It’s important to take care of that part of ourselves. “ “

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