The importance of respite

GothicGremlin

I haven't managed to take any real time off since ..... um .... 2019?  Trying to get on top of my sister's Alzheimer's, the pandemic, work - it all takes a toll, and probably impacts my ability to be a good care giver.

Finally, last week, once I was satisfied that she was doing well in memory care, I took a "spa day".  In my case, it was actually going to my home goth club. In person.

I dressed up, put on make-up, put on the last of my electric violet nail polish, and wore my stompy boots. Just getting myself together to go out was novel and felt good. A friend of mine who also goes to the same club told me that when she went on re-opening night she was almost overwhelmed. She told me to take my time when walking in the door.  Our club closed in March 2020, and reopened in July or Aug. of this year. 

She was so right. Walking in was almost overwhelming - the lights, the sound system, just being in that space, the feeling that so much time has passed and yet it's all much as I remembered it. Seeing everyone I hadn't seen in a year and half (yep, there are regulars who go every week) was great. It's a community that I've missed.

And I got what I needed - a few hours off, knowing that everything was covered and Alzheimer's banished from my brain.  It felt good to move around and I danced til my feet hurt.  I smiled that I still like dancing to Dominion by The Sisters of Mercy.

I got home that night and slept better than I have in quite some time. I'm still feeling the effects of my spa day, and had a good week. That feeling won't last, I know, but I can live on that night for a good long while. 

My advice and take-aways?  If you have a chance to give yourself a break, do it. You won't regret it.

ninalu

Gothic, 
This was such a good read. So glad you got out and had time with yourself and friends.

I wrote to the group a few weeks back looking for advice about how to deal with feelings of isolation, how to come out of my shell and reconnect with my life, the world. 

I appreciate your description of the space and your friend's advice to take re-entrance slowly. I have live music tickets for after the holiday and I'm beyond excited to get into a public space and see some live art with others. Hopefully I don't faint with excitement, haha.

GothicGremlin

 ninalu - ha!  Don't be surprised if you do feel a little overwhelmed, so just drink it all in - but slowly at first.  It'll be great and you'll be so glad you went.

Live music tickets -- that sounds wonderful.

French

Oh yes, respite is good.

Last week I was working and had 2 conferences in other towns. Yes the travel and conferences were tiring, but how I appreciated not having to manage everything (caregivers, meals, showers,  while I am not at home). Breakfast at the hotel, nothing to do. 

Back home yesterday had many things to do (and a break of my washing machine), but I felt free. 

And today : I will do nothing but running a little, reading and have a nap.