Hello, and welcome back to our haven of support, “Lewy Body and Mindful Caregiving.” I’m Krystal Jakosky, your companion on this journey, and today, I want to delve into a topic that touches the hearts of many of us: the delicate dance between asking for help and truly allowing ourselves to receive it. But first, let’s take a moment to nurture ourselves, as self-care remains our steadfast foundation

In recent times, I’ve encountered a personal lesson in embracing help. I arranged for my mom to spend a week with one of my siblings, a decision ripe with opportunity for both introspection and growth. This temporary change not only eased my caregiving duties but also offered a mirror reflecting the importance of accepting the very support we seek.

If you’re like me, perhaps you’ve found yourself in similar situations—requesting help yet still shouldering the burden alone. Decorating my mom’s house for Christmas became such a moment of realization. Eager to bring festive cheer while she was away, I asked a friend for help. Yet, in my typical fashion, I found myself poised to start early, tempted to go it alone.

Then came the pause. A gentle reminder that allowing help can transform a task into a shared joy. Instead, I chose to savor the extra time by indulging in a joyful craft—making peanut brittle. When my friend joined me at the agreed time, the task was swift and filled with laughter, a testament to the power of shared moments.

This experience has been a poignant reminder that as caregivers, our journey is not one we can, or should, walk alone. The path of caregiving, often a marathon rather than a sprint, demands that we embrace support to sustain ourselves and fulfill our roles with grace and resilience.

During this week of my mom’s absence, I’ve found myself instinctively reverting to caregiver mode, only to gently remind myself of the rare gift of time at hand. This breathing space has allowed me to refocus and engage in restorative self-care practices.

When faced with this time, my initial instinct was to fill it with tasks and productivity. Instead, I’ve chosen to honor these days by moving slowly and deliberately, allowing rest and personal joys to take center stage. Whether it’s a peaceful nap, moments in the pottery studio, or the simple pleasure of reading, I’m rediscovering the lightness of being that caregiving can sometimes eclipse.

Each time my mind drifts to familiar caregiving tasks, I consciously draw it back, emphasizing the intention to nurture myself. This intentionality is a powerful reminder that the support I’ve asked for is a gift, one that I must use wisely for renewal.

As caregivers, it’s vital not just to ask for help but to receive it with openness and gratitude. This week has taught me the profound impact of allowing myself time to rest and rejuvenate. In stepping back from daily responsibilities, we learn to prioritize our well-being, refilling our reservoirs of strength and compassion.

You deserve this space to breathe, to heal, and to nourish your spirit, because your role is invaluable to those you care for. Let’s embrace this journey together, acknowledging our needs and sharing our support.

Thank you for being part of this community today. I hope you’ll join me again soon, as we continue exploring the path of caregiving with heart and intention.