How can I calm myself down when I am in the midst of taking care of my dad?

I have been down this road for a year now. Trying to "do it all". I found going outside taking a deep breath and just talking to God or "whoever" whether it be praying, begging, crying or just venting for a few minutes calmed me and put me back on track. My mom who I had been caregiving for the last 2.5 years was "my life". She passed yesterday of the effects of Alzheirmers at home with me in her own bed. I can say now (which I could not see during the storm) that it was so worth the effort. I am at peace that I gave her the best care I could and she did not have to leave in a stark hospital room with tubes and machines and strangers. She (and I) did it OUR WAY as Frank Sinatra would say.
I pray you take care of your self (and don't just yes everyone and not do it). I know where you are coming from. I am now trying to rebuild my tank of energy which was running on fumes. Stay strong!

I think it's amazing that you and your sister are caring for your parents, what a generous gift to them. Don't feel guilty hiring help to come in and occasionally give you a break, there is no shame in asking for help! Another idea to help you manage your stress is to try some gentle yoga. Cable has it on Demand, (or you could buy a DVD) and even if you only do 15 minutes, it is so helpful in calming your mind and body- and doing something really good for YOU!

Thanks Carol! Actually my sister and I take care of both our parents and want to keep them in their house for as much as possible. My sister was on vacation taking some time off (well deserved) so it was just me and pops. I go to zumba classes on Thursday nights and that helps to keep my sanity, but it is the day-to-day stuff that makes it hard..... I miss my Dad (the old Dad), but I know I have to get past that...

I sure can relate to what you experience ... I, too, find myself purely reacting to all that's going on around me. With the help of private caregivers during the day, I take care of both of my parents and sometimes things go flying out of my hands when my thoughts get ahead of what I'm doing. That kind of stuff makes me feel bad too. My sister and a counselor both told me to slow down when things get like this and take at least 3 deep breaths. It "does" help when I remember to do it. I have thought about learning how to meditate so I can consciously teach myself some relaxation techniques.