A caregiver cannot give what he or she does not have inside.  These simple CARE 4 ME tools will make you stronger of mind, body and spirit:

Connect with your God.  If you are among the 93% of Americans who believe in God, spend 15 minutes a day in prayer or meditation.

Ask for your "juice"  like a toddler.  If your  life is out of balance, physically, mentally or spiritually, make a plan for what you need to achieve better balance, then ask for it persistently (and kindly), from yourself, your family and your workplace.

Rest and sleep.  We would never deprive a child of sleep because we know it makes them sick and grumpy, yet we often do that to ourselves. Turn off TV and technology and get 8 hours of sleep per night.

Eat right.  Consume the quantity and quality of food you know your body needs. Period.

4 times a day, breathe!  For 15 minutes, 3-4 times a day, breathe slow deep and easy to release stress, tension, and endorphins.

Mind your mind.  Practice positive thinking 

and visualization, knowing it can change  your body and your mind.  Laugh 400 times a day, like children!  Forgive yourself and someone else.

Exercise 3 times a week.  Walk 45 minutes a day, even in 15 minute increments.  Incorporate exercise into your everyday life. Rake your leaves, play ball with kids, vacuum to rock and roll!

Practicing these strategies will make you happier and healthier. You deserve that. And when your life is in balance, you are in a better place to care for yourself and others.