MY BODY
OVERVIEW
There’s a well documented link between physical fitness and mental wellbeing.
Exercising each day not only makes us feel better (it’s why those suffering with depression are often encouraged to take up running) it actually helps to keep our bodies healthier and in better shape.
Of course not all of us can get out as much as we’d like. If our loved one needs constant care and attention, getting out for a daily walk or a run might not be a practical idea. Although it’s best to get outside to breath the (hopefully) fresh air and exersise your eyes as well as your limbs, you can still benefit hugely from some simple indoor exercises to get the blood pumping round your body and stretch those muscles! Just work your way through our daily exercises and if your loved one is able to join in in some less exuberant way, so much the better!
One of the physical challenges facing carers is that of helping our loved ones with their mobility. Enormous care needs to be taken to ensure that this is done safely and in a way that won’t harm either them or you. It’s important to constantly assess how to best help your loved one with their mobility needs and to assess the risk to both of you. Our introductory course in The Alexander Technique provides a foundation for the best ways to move yourself and to enhance your posture, together with simple ways in which you might help your loved one. Remember that it’s always better to seek help than to have to cope with additional challenges of your own or your loved one’s physical injury due to an ill prepared action.