Take a moment to ask yourself,

what is it you need to feel better?

Meeting your body in the moment. Para la versión en español haga clic aquí )

We know that with cancer, moments of positivity and self-love are hard to find on certain days. You are being asked to manage many changes, both to your physical appearance and how you physically feel. Frustration and negative feelings are a normal part of a cancer diagnosis.

Yet, it is important to recognize your body is working fiercely to protect you and to get you better. But even knowing this, it can be hard to accept changes in your energy level or appearance. Take a look at this article on Body Image and Cancer from Teenage Cancer Trust.

Self-Care IS Empowerment

Self-Care is YOU turning your pain into power. Meeting your body where it is, using the practice of self-care, is a way to empower yourself to feel more in control. Through self-care, you can pay attention to what you need to strengthen your reserve to feel better. Research shows that regular self-care practices can reduce the adverse effects of stress, sleep disturbances and anxiety.

Trust yourself! You get to choose what self-care practices best nurtures your well-being and works best for you. Many simple daily actions can nurture your wellbeing. Giving yourself extra TLC during treatment is an essential part of encouraging your happiness and health.

Self-Care is different and unique for every person, here are some suggestions:

  • Finding quiet time and allowing yourself to rest.

  • Using a journal to help process your thoughts and emotions.

  • Creating space and finding time for enjoying things that make you feel good such as crafting, reading, taking a bath, going for a walk, watching a favorite show, or baking.

  • Getting a massage.

  • Chair yoga and light stretching.

  • Going outside, going for a walk.

  • If you have the energy, spend time with people that you care for.

  • Prioritize sleep. It's incredibly important to your well being.

  • Protect your time. This could mean saying "no" when overwhelmed.

It is possible to Feel Better and Look Good. Your Self-Care Kit is the beginning of you discovering what helps you care for your body and mind. We invite you to pick one of the self-care items on our list, to be sent to you, an important first step in you turning your pain into power.