Stressful Times and How go Cope

The past month has put a general damper on my daily life. World events have made enjoying life challenging. Should I even be enjoying life? How can I possibly not think about innocent children dying and go on with daily activities? What if you have been recently diagnosed with breast cancer or are currently in treatment, doesn’t that need to be your priority? We can’t save everyone if we don’t save ourselves first. Here’s just a few coping mechanisms I’ve learned that can be a big help.

Regular Exercise is key! I know you have heard it all before but even I am surprised at how many benefits exercise can produce and reducing your overall fatigue and depression is one of them. Gentle exercise, such as walking, can boost your energy, help make you feel less tired and improve your mood!

The American College of Sports Medicine (in 2010) reviewed available research and concluded that exercise is safe during and after all breast cancer treatments (as long as you take any needed precautions and keep the intensity low) and improves physical functioning, quality of life, and cancer-related fatigue. There also is evidence that exercise can help breast cancer survivors live longer and lead a more active life!

Take time to recharge! I know it’s not easy but my sweet and very knowledgeable cousin, told me it’s ok to take this time so that we are stronger when we return to our tasks. It’s ok to not go on social media or listen to the news for a day. If you feel you can’t do that, then limit the time you spend getting informed. Maybe it’s 30 minutes a day and you shut it down after that amount of time.

Pray or meditate. If you are feeling overwhelmed or extremely nervous, BREATHE! When I take in 5 slow deep breaths and then exhale, it will slow my heart rate down and I start to feel a general sense of calm. If you are so inclined, say a short prayer or mediate if you prefer on something that brings you joy. This technique is proven to help reduce stress and improve mental function.

Seek professional help or at least a friend. I know this is not easy for everyone but talking about your feelings can be a huge help. You may even need some anti-anxiety medication, and THAT’S OK! You don’t have to stay on it forever but it may help get you through this difficult or challenging time in your life.

I hope that was helpful and I’m here to say you are not alone and I understand.

Sending you lots of love,

Tammy

How Exercise Helped Save My Life

The benefits of regular exercise are endless. The benefits I experienced before, during and after my cancer diagnosis were the most wonderful and unexpected!

Yes, I enjoyed a regular exercise routine for many years prior to my cancer, often working out for one or two hours a day, 5-6 days a week. I was in excellent health and then BOOM, out of nowhere, cancer! At the beginning, my exercise was a stress reliever, during my treatments it was a lifesaver, after it was all over, it still gave me purpose and personal goals to achieve again.

My regular workouts and walks were sometimes the only thing I accomplished besides my numerous doctor appointments each week. After my surgeries I would get up and walk as soon as possible. I continued to exercise and used very light weights. On my worse days after chemo, when the nausea set in and the steroids had me amped, I would still walk for an hour. My recovery from both chemo and surgery was on fast forward. My body healed quickly and I was grateful for that.

Once I was done with everything, 18 months had gone by. I had a lot of strength to regain, my lungs and heart were not in top shape, I had gained weight and was feeling weaker than ever. I set small goals for myself, like running a 5K and doing a push-up again. Still to this day, I believe moving my body was a huge help both mentally and physically. In my mind, exercise helped save me and get me through one of the most difficult times in my life!

No matter where you are at, set small goals for yourself and just start! It’s truly never too late to get moving and experience all the same benefits!