As a kidney disease patient, self-care is an essential practice for your mental and physical health. This practice can be effective but looks different for each person. While some people may find a spa or vacation uplifting, others may prefer a long walk or a talk with a therapist. To help you discover what works for you, the National Kidney Foundation (NKF) discusses eight self-care ideas to try.* 

Set yourself up for restful sleep

Poor sleep is a common problem faced by people living with chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients. You may find that it helps to:

• Turn off electronics an hour before bed.
• Wind down before going to sleep, with a warm bath, meditation, or gentle stretches.
• Ensure you have a cool, dark, and quiet sleep environment.
• Avoid large meals, caffeine, and alcohol for several hours prior to bedtime.
• Speak with your doctor if inadequate sleep persists.

Have fun

Life can become predictable. Create your own excitement and fun by doing something spontaneous or planning a special event. Consider making a list of things you think sound fun but have never tried. Then commit to doing those things and crossing them off the list. 

Start and stay moving

For those who do not enjoy traditional exercise, getting physical activity in can be difficult. Learning the activities you enjoy can have many benefits to your overall health. 

Some options to explore might be:

• A free online yoga or pilates video
• A group exercise class
• Walking around your neighborhood
• Dancing in your house or at a local dancehall
• Hiking, swimming or going on other outdoor adventures

Get involved in your community

Volunteering and being active in your community can help you feel less alone. If you’re interested in being involved specifically with the CKD community, you could:

• Join the NKF Kidney Community to connect with other CKD patients and ask questions.
• Share your story in person or online and become a Voices from Kidney Health Advocate.
• Raise awareness about CKD by participating in a local NKF walk or volunteering at an NKF event. 

Try Meal Prepping

Meal prepping can help you to eat healthier, feel better, and reduce food waste. You can research and learn some new cooking tips, and start prepping your food and/or freezing leftovers. 

Spend time with family and friends

Whether it’s hanging out in the backyard, participating in a game night, or going bowling, spending time with loved ones is a great way to feel connected and enjoy yourself. Schedule some quality social time, even if it’s just relaxing at home. 

Maintain your medication regimen

Taking your medications as prescribed is crucial to staying as healthy as possible, and managing medical conditions. If you struggle to stick to the schedule, you could:

• Use a pillbox.
• Set an alarm via an app, mobile phone, or watch.
• Keep medications in visible places, but out of reach of children and pets.
• Schedule your medications at the same time as other daily routines.

If drug cost is an issue, speak with your healthcare provider about financial resources and use a free prescription discount card to make medications more affordable.

Speak with someone who’s been in your shoes

Even if you have a good family support system, they may not fully understand what it is like living with kidney disease. Consider speaking with another CKD patient such as an NKF peer mentor, who can empathize as well as sympathize, and who is trained to give you the support you need. 

*8 Self-Care Ideas for People With Kidney Disease. (2022, September 22). National Kidney Foundation. Retrieved October 7, 2022, from https://www.kidney.org/newsletter/8-self-care-ideas-people-kidney-disease