Hospice Orillia offers unique service for clients and caregivers
“Self-care is a deliberate choice to gift our self with people, place, things, events, and opportunities that recharge our personal battery and promote whole health – body, mind, and spirit.” – Laurie Buchanan
Self-care is a hot topic in society today. The rising use of the word ‘self-care’ has caused many people to consider what it is that recharges them, energizes them, and makes them feel like their most authentic self. Although self-care varies greatly from person to person, it often involves some aspects of physical activity, nature, music, food and meditation, among many others. All of these things can add balance to our lives, leaving us better equipped to face the many stressors of our world today.
Unfortunately, self-care seems to be the first thing that is dropped when we are dealing with difficult situations. Critically, however, it is when we are under stressful and life-altering situations when it is the most important time to be good to our souls. Self-care does not have to be onerous or intense. It can be as simple as scheduling time for yourself to have a cup of tea with no distractions, going for a morning walk, or spending time with those people that you love. Even 5 minutes every day can make a difference in your outlook and well-being.
Hospice Orillia recognizes and values self-care, and the impact it can have on individuals and families living with life-limiting illness. Hospice Orillia’s newest endeavour, our Complementary Therapy program, aims to promote well-being, relaxation, and comfort for clients in our community living with life-limiting illness. Trained and professional volunteers are available to provide Reiki and Registered Massage Therapy, for up to 4 sessions annually. These therapies are meant to compliment the current care that the individual is receiving, rather than replace conventional medical practices.
Hospice Orillia also recognizes how difficult it is to be a caregiver for someone living with a life-limiting illness, and would like to encourage caregivers, who give so much of themselves to their loved ones, to take time for themselves too.
“You owe yourself the love that you so freely give to other people” – Howeton Wooten.
In addition, Hospice Orillia offers professional counselling for individuals living with life-limiting illness, as well as their family members and caregivers.Talking to someone about the many emotions that are experienced when faced with a life-limiting illness or caring for a loved one can be a helpful way to practice self-care.
Thanks to the generous support from the North Simcoe Muskoka Local Health Integration Network and donations from the community, all of Hospice Orillia’s services are provided at no cost.
If you are interested in learning more about the programs that Hospice Orillia offers, please contact Stefanie Collins MSW, RSW at 705-325-0505 ext. 211.
Written by:
Stefanie Collins, Visiting Hospice Coordinator, Social Worker