Healing the Wounds of Trauma

and going that Jesus and his disciples didn’t even have time to eat. So he said to them, ‘Let us go off by ourselves to some place where we will be alone and you can rest a while’” (Mk 6.31). Sometimes it takes several days of rest to begin to release the burden. Spouses and children are part of our ministry, not a barrier to it. Caregivers need to reserve time for their spouse and children. In some cases, a family retreat or holiday might be appropriate. E. Take care of your physical body. • Get exercise daily. Exercise releases stress. • Get enough sleep. Adults need 7–8 hours per night. • Eat good, nourishing food. If funds are limited, learn about less expensive options such as beans and rice. Don’t become so busy with work that you forget to eat. You need good food to be strong physically.

CLOSING EXERCISE

1. Read Psalm 1 together. Discuss what is needed for trees to grow and bear fruit. In what ways has God given you the things you need to grow and bear fruit? 2. In small groups, describe your workload. How can you care for yourself and your family as you care for others?

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Caring for the Caregiver