I’ll get right to the point……how’s your memory these days? What’s your stress level? Think there might be a correlation between the two??? Mmmmmmmm, yes.
“Stress is one of the brain’s worst enemies. Over time, chronic stress destroys brain cells and damages the hippocampus, the region of the brain involved in the formation of new memories and the retrieval of old ones. Studies have also linked stress to memory loss.” I found that in this article How to Improve Your Memory.
As a family caregiver, stress can be triggered by so many events that occur throughout your day and over time. All of it affects your body, your thoughts and feelings, and your behavior. It also affects your memory, and as we age, that can be an additional concern that we all need to be aware of for ourselves as well as our loved ones.
I exercise and do a lot of reading/learning to continue to keep my mind sharp. But when stress pops in, I can’t seem to focus, and my memory goes by the wayside. It’s very frustrating, so I’ve found meditation techniques can help with that as well.
Take some time to read the article; I believe you will find ideas in there that you will benefit from.
One of the things that I continue to urge all of you to do is to be sure to take time out, get some air, take a walk…and breathe. If you live in the Bay Area, I hope you’ll be able to join us on our Saturday walks. They are an easy hour that allows you to better care for yourself so that you can care for your loved one. The companionship of other family caregivers can bring new awareness and comfort to your life as well. Try it, I know you’ll like it! More information and to sign up please visit the Breathing Spaces website.
Be well…..
Hugs,
Cyndi