Research over the last decade is clear: Caregivers who devote themselves to their loved ones to the exclusion of their own needs become ill. In a study of spousal caregivers (Schulz, et al, 1999), caregivers who experienced mental or emotional strain had a 63 percent higher risk of death than noncaregivers.

Physical activity is proven to improve both mental and physical health. It tackles anxiety, depression and anger. It enhances your immune system and decreases the risk of developing diseases such as cancer and heart disease. It helps maintain a healthy weight. Becoming more active can lower your blood pressure by as much as 4 to 9 mm Hg. That's the same reduction in blood pressure delivered by some antihypertensive medications.

Three 10-minute periods of activity are almost as beneficial to your overall fitness as one 30-minute session.

For each hour of regular exercise you get, you’ll gain about two hours of life expectancy, even if you don’t start until middle age. Moderate exercise, such as brisk walking, for as little as 30 minutes a day has the proven health benefits listed above as well as:

• Improves self-image and energy levels
• Improves muscle tone and muscle strength
• Improves circulation, which reduces the risk of heart disease
• Helps prevent bone loss
• Promotes enthusiasm and optimism
• Reduces coronary heart disease in women by 30–40 percent
• Reduces risk of stroke by 20 percent in moderately active people and by 27 percent in highly active ones
• Helps in the battle to quit smoking
• Helps you fall asleep faster and sleep more soundly

It’s also a good idea to spend some time outdoors. Sunlight on your skin helps your body produce vitamin D, which brings many added health benefits.