While the holidays are a time for celebration, camaraderie, and indulgence, they can also present special difficulties for patients and survivors of breast cancer. To keep the holidays positive rather than depressing, it’s important to strike a balance between the joyous mood and self-care. Here are some suggestions to help you maintain your physical and mental well-being over the holidays, regardless of whether you’re in treatment, recovering, or celebrating life as a survivor.
- Give rest and energy conservation a priority.
Anyone might become exhausted by the holiday rush, but for individuals who are dealing with the side effects of breast cancer treatment, like physical limitations, nausea, or fatigue, rest is a must. If an event or obligation feels exhausting, it’s acceptable to say “no”. Put your priorities first, whether that’s spending time with loved ones in peace, enjoying a cherished holiday custom, or just lounging with a nice book.
Useful Advice:
- Arrange your days so that you have rest in between tasks.
- Assign friends and family to do things like buying, cooking, and decorating.
- Asking for help is a gift from loved ones; don’t be afraid to ask for it.
- Eat Carefully While Preserving Festive Joy
Rich, sweet, and decadent holiday meals are common, but eating a balanced diet is crucial for both physical well-being and recuperation. Moderation is crucial, so you don’t have to give up all the Christmas treats. Make an effort to combine your favorite treats with wholesome ones.
Practical Tips:
- Arrange your plate wisely: Eat fewer portions of heavier foods and start with veggies, lean proteins, and whole grains.
- Remain hydrated: Water can help you stay energized and handle treatment side effects including dry mouth.
- Make nutritious holiday meals by using whole-grain flours, natural sweeteners like honey, and plant-based substitutes for heavy creams.
If you’re going to a party, think about bringing a meal that fits your dietary requirements so you’ll have healthy options.
- Control Your Stress Levels
There are moments when the holidays seem more chaotic than happy. However, stress can impair immunity, which is particularly problematic for people receiving treatment or recovering from an illness. For your wellbeing, you must find quiet moments amid the holiday chaos.
Practical Tips:
- Develop mindfulness: Take a few minutes every day to meditate, perform yoga, or deepen your breathing.
- Simplify customs: Have a potluck rather than prepare a fancy dinner. Concentrate on one comfortable space rather than decorating the entire house.
- Keep your eyes on the important things: Let go of perfection and enjoy the small pleasures of the season, like watching your favorite movie or listening to seasonal music.
- Continue to Be Active in a Calm Manner
Even though it may be tempting to spend the holidays and the cold weather lounging on the sofa, a little exercise can improve circulation, elevate your mood, and lessen the negative effects of therapy, such as joint discomfort or exhaustion. Avoiding overexertion and paying attention to your body are essential.
Practical Tips:
- Take quick walks: It can be calming and energizing to take a stroll around the neighborhood and take in the holiday lights.
- Try yoga or chair exercises: These low-impact exercises are excellent for preserving mobility and lowering stress levels.
- Dancing to Christmas music: This is a happy and entertaining way to keep moving without feeling like you’re working out.
- Guard Your Immune System
Your immune system may already be weakened if you’re receiving treatment, so it’s critical to take extra care during the winter months when colds and the flu are prevalent.
Practical Tips:
- Steer clear of crowded areas: Keep your distance from anyone who appears ill if you’re at a party.
- Sanitize often: When soap and water are unavailable, wash your hands frequently and keep hand sanitizer on hand.
- Dress warmly: To protect yourself from the cold and prevent extended exposure to cold weather, bundle up.
- Adopt Emotional Wellbeing
Emotions can run the gamut over the holidays, particularly if you’re going through a difficult period. You might experience despair, anxiety, or frustration in addition to happiness, thankfulness, or hope. Just as crucial as taking care of your physical requirements is recognizing and attending to your emotional needs.
Practical Tips:
- Make contact with those you love: Be in the company of individuals who encourage and support you. This could entail going to fewer events but giving priority to those that truly make you happy.
- Write down your thoughts: Emotions can be processed therapeutically by putting your sentiments in writing.
- Seek expert assistance: Do not be afraid to seek help from a counselor if the holiday blues become too much to handle.
- Keep Your Medical Needs in Mind
It’s simple to overlook routines or medical appointments in between family get-togethers and holiday celebrations. Maintaining your healthcare routine is critical to your general health.
Practical Tips:
- Adhere to your prescription regimen: To make sure you don’t skip dosages, set reminders or alarms.
- Get in touch with your care group: See your doctor beforehand if you have any questions regarding your vacation plans, nutrition, or activities.
- Take side effects into consideration: Schedule less strenuous activities during treatments if you feel exhausted or ill.
- Discover Happiness in the Little Things
There’s beauty in coming up with fresh ways to celebrate, even if your holidays don’t look like they did in previous years. Little, significant moments can frequently bring
Practical Tips:
- Create new customs: Whether it’s a brunch in your pajamas or writing messages of thanks for your tree, concentrate on making memories that fit your present way of life.
- Put an emphasis on thankfulness: Consider your accomplishments, the help you’ve gotten, and your optimism for the future.
- Honor accomplishments: Whether it’s completing a course of therapy or just surviving another year, take some time to recognize your fortitude and tenacity.
Conclusion
Warmth, hope, and camaraderie are hallmarks of the holiday season that are particularly relevant to the experiences of breast cancer patients and survivors. You can plan a vacation that feeds your body and soul by putting your health first, practicing self-care, and savoring special moments. Keep in mind that it’s acceptable to release the need to make things “perfect.” Compassion, relaxation, and the ability to celebrate as you choose are the best gifts you can offer yourself.
I hope that your holidays are full of light, love, and the hope of a successful new year!
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