Caregiving and stress: An unfortunate combination
In a survey of more than 1,000 adults who provide unpaid care for an adult loved one, caregiving was found to take a toll on their mental health.
Nothing says calm like a healthy dose of lavender. If you’re in need of some relaxation (or know someone who is), try this easy DIY lavender scented eye pillow, care of Jennifer Cordova, manager of the Sewall Healthy Living Center at Sharp Coronado Hospital.
You’ll need:
1 clean sock
2 cups uncooked rice or flaxseed
2 tablespoons dried lavender flowers
4 to 6 drops organic lavender essential oil
Directions:
Using a funnel, pour the rice into the sock.
Pour the dried lavender into a small bowl. Add 4 to 6 drops of essential oil and stir. Add the lavender mixture to the sock.
Tie the end of the sock to secure, and gently massage the sock to mix the rice and lavender together. Place the pillow on your eyes and inhale deeply. For enhanced relaxation, heat the pillow in the microwave for 5 seconds or until slightly warm.
Practicing self-care can help decrease stress, soothe the body and realign mental focus. For more videos like this one, visit our self-care video playlist.
The Sharp Health News Team are content authors who write and produce stories about Sharp HealthCare and its hospitals, clinics, medical groups and health plan.
Jennifer Cordova is a manager of the Sewall Healthy Living Center at Sharp Coronado Hospital.
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