Dealing with cancer is taxing on all fronts: it can deplete your physical strength, sap your mental energy, and cause emotional turmoil. Face these challenges head-on with a few time-tested strategies. From gathering your support network to pursuing your passions, the following tips from Cancer Society of America will help you through your journey.

Incorporate Walks and Joyful Movement

Walking outdoors is one of the best ways to strengthen and refresh us, inside and out, and it’s especially convenient if you live or work in an area with a high Walk Score. Any area scored 70 or higher on a walk score chart is pedestrian-friendly. But even simple things like getting up and dressed, doing a few light stretches, or moving around the house count toward your daily movement.

Getting adequate rest should always be your top priority, but it’s also important to move your body when you feel up to it. The American Cancer Society advises thinking of a few safe, low-impact movements that you love to do. What brings about a feeling of peace and joy? Maybe it’s yoga, swimming, or walking.

Activities like these can restore a sense of the normal rhythm of life. It doesn’t need to be an elaborate routine; a few minutes here and there, like when your meals are cooking, is sufficient. If a movement hurts or triggers discomfort, stop. And always discuss a potential exercise routine with your doctor before starting.

Shape a Clean and Tidy Environment

Clutter can be a source of stress and harbor dust and harmful bacteria, so give yourself the gift of a tidy home environment. Invest in some storage containers, cast items you no longer need into boxes to give to a charity, and shape a space of sweet simplicity. Choose carcinogen-free cleaning products to wipe down surfaces, which frequently have the bonus benefit of being infused with essential oils. Scents like lavender and eucalyptus can help you relax.

Prioritize Rest

Honor your body’s signals when you need to rest. Give yourself carte blanche to cancel plans at the last minute or wrap up work early when you need some downtime. Although missing out on work or play can be disheartening, you’ll be conserving your energy to enjoy these activities again sooner.

Practice Healthy Habits

Supporting your health and wellness during cancer treatment is vital, and adopting healthy habits can make a significant difference. Drinking at least two liters of water per day helps keep you hydrated and aids in detoxifying your body. Exploring CBD oil for pain relief can offer a natural alternative to manage discomfort.

Additionally, starting a meditation practice can help reduce stress, improve mental clarity, and promote a sense of calm. These habits collectively contribute to enhancing your overall well-being and can provide valuable support as you navigate your treatment journey.

Get Support

When you first received your diagnosis, you probably heard this familiar line from family and friends: “Let me know if there’s anything I can do!” Most people never take their loved ones up on this offer. But asking for help is one of the kindest things you can do for yourself during this time.

Make a list of all the people in your support network and think of how they can assist you.  Maybe take one of those well-meaning friends up on an offer for help on your decluttering project. A next-door neighbor might be able to drop off a meal from your favorite takeout spot. When your best friend in another state can’t pitch in on those in-person tasks, she could spend her lunch break ordering a few household essentials for you on Amazon. 

Care for Your Mind

Don’t forget the importance of mental health resources. The emotional roller coaster of cancer is difficult for the best of us. A support group or one-on-one therapist who specializes in patients with cancer can be an invaluable resource when friends and family just don’t understand. Want to find one in your area? Ask a family member to do the research for you and schedule an appointment.

Adding these types of treatments can enhance your wellbeing and be integral pieces of a well-rounded treatment plan.

Find Ways to Care for Yourself

However you choose to cope with cancer, remember to honor your intuition and your body’s signals. You can do this by including joyful movement, embracing your tribe’s support, getting in a good walk, and shaping a restful and uncluttered space. Remember to incorporate key therapies in your regimen and tap into mental health support services to protect your mindset. Take the time to take care of yourself in meaningful ways. It’s a marathon, not a sprint.

For more information visit https://cancersocietyofamerica.info to learn more!

Article contributed by denise_lozada@cancersocietyofamerica.info