For many family carers, a little time off from caring is much needed. However, it’s often not possible to just take off on holiday for extended periods, or to fit in the activities you used to enjoy before becoming a carer. And often, financial constraints are an issue.
If you’re looking for free activities for carers in Birmingham, come try out our yoga classes under the Carers Yoga Project – with support from the Birmingham Carers Hub. Our free yoga for carers programme is the perfect antidote for the overwhelm you may be facing as a high-stress, time-short carer. Here’s why:
- Finding peace of mind
You spend a lot of time being the strong one. You may suppress emotions, stress, and worries for the sake of keeping going. Over time, pressure builds up and you may feel like you’re reaching a breaking point. Sometimes you have a sense of duty or obligation, and you may feel torn, guilty or undeserving when you take a break.
Your yoga class is a space where you can turn up and just be. In the course of a yoga class, you will learn to tune in to those uncomfortable thoughts and sensations and to “sit with them”. These anxieties lose their grip on you as you acknowledge them.
As goes the saying, “Grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change.” Practicing yoga is a way of practicing that serenity of acceptance.
- Put a spring in your step
Many carers suffer from back or other joint pain, muscle fatigue, and general chronic tiredness. This is due to the physical demands of the caring role such as lifting and moving the looked-after person. Poor diet and lack of sleep are also contributing factors.
Attending a regular yoga class for carers recharges your energy levels, helps you breathe better and feel fitter, stronger, and healthier. Aside from the physical exercise, you also cultivate an awareness of what feels good in your body. Along with that comes a greater commitment to looking after yourself and your needs.
Carers who have been attending our free yoga classes for 10 weeks reported greater freedom and confidence in their physique, as well as better sleep.
- Yoga can be a social event
If you’re a carer, you may struggle to spend time with other friends and family. You may find there’s a barrier to talking about your caring role in social situations, or sometimes busy schedules just don’t allow it.
At one of our carers yoga classes, you’ll be able to meet other individuals like yourself, going through the same things who may be able to help, support or share their knowledge and experience.
Still not convinced? Here’s some great feedback, straight from the horse’s mouth:
“I just wanted to say a big thank you to you and all at Barefoot for making my Mondays special.
Today I left with a smile on my face, a bloom in my cheeks, a spring in my step and my spirit renewed. There is always something new to learn which keeps the practice fresh and interesting.
Monday yoga at Barefoot is a wonderful start to my week. I am happier and healthier because of it. Life is better with yoga!” – Diane (pictured above)
So if you’re an unpaid family carer, looking after a frail, ill, or disabled loved one in Birmingham, give us a call now on 0121 426 2633 or email faye@barefootbirmingham.com to chat about your free yoga classes!