Mantras are a lot like New Year’s Resolutions. You have to practice them daily if you want to create a major change in your life. You can’t hit the gym once in a blue moon and expect dramatic results. Likewise, you can’t reinforce positive thinking once in awhile and expect a huge shift in your outlook on life or attitude.
If you’re tired of feeling sad, overwhelmed or frustrated, try adopting one or all of the six mantras included below. You know that support is one of the most important tools for an LBD caregiver. There are millions of books, blogs, articles and support groups dedicated to the caregiving process but, at the end of the day, YOU are one of the best resources available to yourself. Mantras are a great way to support yourself and lift your spirits.
Mantras have been used for thousands of years as a way to reframe or focus your consciousness. Repeat the mantra to yourself as often as possible and soon you will find that it becomes part of your natural thought process, replacing negative thoughts with empowering beliefs. The following mantras will help you feel grounded, resilient and better prepared to support your loved one throughout this difficult process.
“I will create the space for positivity.”
If your loved one has had a less than pleasant night, instead of worrying about what will happen next, say out loud or to yourself that you are looking forward to tomorrow or dawn, or even remind yourself the following morning that “today is a new day; all things are new, and anything is possible.”
“I let my happiness bring joy to others.”
Mantras aren’t just for the tough times. When you have an accomplishment as a caregiver, such as effectively distracting your loved one from something that is bothering them or spending meaningful time together reminiscing over old photographs, take a moment to appreciate your work and the positivity you’re bringing to your loved one’s life.
“Today, I am perfect.”
This mantra is a great one for caregivers and their loved ones alike. If you or they have a bad day, or if you feel like you have too much on your plate and can’t catch up, take a deep breath and try this mantra. Today, you are enough. Today, you are perfect. You are exactly where and who you need to be today. Be grateful for this day and don’t worry about what has passed or what is yet to come.
“This is Lewy Body Dementia speaking, not my loved one.”
If your loved one says cruel things or refuses your assistance, try not to take it personally. You are making a positive difference in their life and they need you. This isn’t them speaking; this is Lewy Body Dementia. They are not intentionally trying to hurt you. This, unfortunately, is a by-product of the struggle they’re dealing with. When things get tough, step away for a few minutes and collect yourself. Repeat this mantra. When you’re ready, go back to your loved one and try a different approach in handling their discomforts, such as distraction or affirmation.
Get in the game.
Caregiving for your loved one with LBD will seem overwhelming at times, but don’t let that stop you from being kind to yourself and them. When you don’t know where to begin – which doctors to call, what books to read, who to reach out to – just remember that the most important thing is that you start somewhere. Anywhere. Right here, right now is just as good as any other time or place.
