It’s all in Your Body: Caregivers Secrets to Tactful Communication and Release

In caregiving, it seems logical to assume what you say to your loved one influences what kind of day he or she will experience. Have you ever thought of how your body can do all the talking?

Body language is an unspoken form of communication that is often over looked, but arguably more important than verbal communication.  It has been shown in several research projects that feelings are 55% body language, 38% tone, and 7% words.

So what does this mean? Basically, caregivers can pay close attention to the emotions and stresses they feel in order to not transfer them onto your loved one.  Knowing that your body relays your feelings will also serve to remind you to take breaks and allow yourself time to relax when needed.  This is what makes your body language positive.

Maintaining body talk that is hopeful and life-affirming will require that you take care of yourself and your body. That could mean delegating care taking tasks to others. This can allow you to live a more-balanced life that could include new or renewed interests, which can help relieve anxiety and stress.