FAMILY MINISTRY CORNER        

Now that life is slowly returning to pre Covid times members of the family may still be feeling the effects of lockdown or home schooling or missing their friends whatever age you/they are. I recently watched a webinar presented by the Catholic Schools NSW. The presenter Justin Coulson focused on Self Care and reminded us that you ‘can’t pour from an empty cup.’ Maybe you are feeling that way that you simply have no more to give. Let me share some of Jason’s pearls using the acronym HALTS which may resonate with that feeling of overwhelm.

Hungry – you need to have food in your ‘belly’. Good nutritious food will sustain you and help you through the challenging times. Remember also if the chocolate in the fridge is tempting you, go for it and enjoy a treat.

Angry – if your mental health isn’t at the level you are used to,  the blood flow may be being diverted as your brain takes over. Your normal state of equilibrium is out of whack; the kids are fighting; the weather has turned foul and home schooling is not your chosen career path. Find a quiet space and try to switch off. Some quality ‘ME’ time will help balance you.

Lonely – do you feel like you are doing all this on your own? Are you struggling with not being connected? Try not to despair. Phone a friend or take the time to care for yourself. What is it that would bring back your sense of worth or feeling valued again? Remember you are special

Tired – we all need 8 hours sleep. Easier said than done. Switch off the computer; let the family know that your ‘ME’ time is between a certain time; have a ‘lights out’ policy one night a week when at 9pm all lights go out (sleep before midnight is worth double) and have a light dinner so you wont feel ‘heavy’ when you get into bed and therefore unable to sleep.

Stress – we all know how our life is impacted by not handling what is thrown at us to deal with.

Over the next week try to eliminate the Halts through eating well, focusing on personal and spiritual growth; having  a medical check up and getting  to bed as early as possible.  Happy days!

Advent at Home

HELENE O'NEILL
PARISH - FAMILY LIAISON OFFICER, DIOCESE OF MAITLAND - NEWCASTLE
P 02) 4979 1133  F   M 0400 781 374  
841 Hunter St Newcastle West NSW 2302 | PO Box 756 Newcastle NSW 2300 

Email  Helene.ONeill@mn.catholic.org.au Visit us online www.mn.catholic.org.au