Living with Cancer: 5 Self-Care Tactics to Try

Guest post by Scott Sanders of Cancer Well.
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If you are dealing with a cancer diagnosis, you are fighting one of the toughest battles of your life. It can be difficult to remain optimistic when your body is being attacked by such a vicious opponent, but positivity is important to maintaining some control over your life. If you are facing cancer and finding it difficult to go on, try these soul-soothing self-care tactics.

Nourish Your Body

Taking control of your nutrition is one way to have some range of control over your body. You need proper nourishment to continue fighting this important battle, so try to think of food as fuel. Certain foods may also help relieve symptoms of chemotherapy and treatment and offer extra comfort. For example, ginger can be a wonderful remedy for nausea, while broths can soothe mouth dryness. Balancing your diet can help keep your body balanced while providing healing power.

Set Aside Time for Sleep and Rest

The pain and discomfort caused by cancer can make resting difficult but it’s important for you to get as much sleep as you can. Sleep is our body’s way of recovering and healing from each day, and it gives our mind a beneficial break. Try to create a relaxing space in your bedroom. Invest in quality sheets and pillows to increase comfort and keep your room dimly lit.

Some cancer patients are turning to Cannabidiol (CBD), a supplement that mirrors the body’s natural endocannabinoid system and may help promote sleep, reduce pain, and regulate mood and emotions. Others swear by essential oils for their calming and sleep-inducing effects.

Ask for Help When You Need It

This is a tough battle, and you will need to be strong to get through it. You don’t, however, have to face this challenge alone. Reach out to loved ones for support and comfort. Don’t be afraid to ask them for help on those tough days or when you are just too mentally exhausted to function on your own. If you need additional understanding, seek out local support groups to connect with other people with cancer. It’s also a good idea to connect with a licensed counselor, especially if you feel overwhelmed or depressed.

Learn to Live in the Present

Learning to be mindful and truly present is essential for combating stress, pain, and depression. It can be especially helpful to those dealing with the pain and discomfort of cancer. Mindfulness can help take your focus off of the greater scope of your condition and allow you to focus on the smaller pleasure in each passing minute. You’ll learn to truly appreciate the simple joys that make life worthwhile, which can be a true gift for cancer patients. Being present and being thoughtful is path to peace and a way to foster a deeper connection between yourself and the world around you.

Use Self-Care to Find Spiritual Relief

Self-care practices are essential for coping with the enormous amounts of stress caused by long-term illness. Find gentle ways to release tension and connect with your inner thoughts and feelings. A meditation practice is a wonderful way to unwind and train yourself to focus on relaxation. Yoga is another way to practice relaxing breath work while relieving tension throughout the body. Use these times to reflect on the positives throughout your days and try to let go of any anxieties you’ve carried before unwinding.

There’s no easy solution to staying positive in the face of cancer. It takes a true warrior to deal with these symptoms day after day. Hopefully this information can provide some comfort during this difficult battle.