By Jeff Baird, Sunrise Reiki Colorado
Industry leaders in senior living understand that the wellness of their staff is reflected in the care that their residents receive. Those who work at senior living communities lead with their hearts on a daily basis and if their cup is empty, the care they provide for their residents will suffer. There are only 24 hours in a day and if most of your day is spent at your senior community, when are you taking time to rest and recharge?
I’ve known many who brag about their long working hours and wear their high blood pressure readings like badges of honor. Recently, I discussed this with a seasoned senior living executive. One of the things he told me was, “I love our residents and they love me. It’s very hard for me to break away for some down time. I always show up on Christmas day and other holidays and my residents know that I’m just a phone call away.” When I asked him what he did to rest and recharge, he laughed and said, “I drink a lot.” When I dug a little deeper he confessed that he is always on call and hoped to take a vacation “if and when things ever slow down.” Sound familiar?
Taking time out of your busy schedule for a Reiki session can help you rest and recharge. The healing energy reduces stress and brings a new clarity that reminds us of the importance of taking care of ourselves; especially if we are in the business of caring for others. If you are burning the candle at both ends it’s only a matter of time before you hit the wall. It happens to the best of us.
In senior living, leasing counselors stress the importance of being proactive and making a move before there is a fall or another emergency that will require an immediate move for a potential resident. This same philosophy applies to leasing counselors as well. Be proactive with your own health and well-being before you hit the wall. Self-care should not be ignored for the sake of showing your colleagues how many long hours you can clock on any given day. We’re all human and we were not meant to be on call 24/7 without a break.
I have been invited to different employee recognition events at senior living communities where I shared Reiki with the staff. At one such event, we offered ten minute abbreviated Reiki sessions and the staff was so grateful. There was a line outside of the space where I was sharing Reiki and many of the staff members thanked the executive who coordinated the event and wanted to know when I would return. If you are interested in scheduling an employee recognition event for your team, please reach out. They will love you for it. Happy staff = Happy residents. Just call or text (720)250-8107.