When you're facing a serious illness like cancer, taking these healthy steps every day can help you feel more in control, and perhaps even ease your concerns a bit. Here are some practical and emotionally beneficial daily activities to consider:
1. Exercise. Physical activity can boost mood, reduce fatigue, and improve overall quality of life. You don't have to exhaust yourself to benefit from exercise; try a brisk walk or some gentle stretches.
2. Listen to your body and learn to recognize what feels normal—and what doesn't. Report sudden or unexpected symptoms to your physician.
3. Plan for your medical appointments. Jot down questions and concerns as they occur to you, so you won't have to rely on your memory, which may fail you in the stress of the moment. Keep track of all information on tests, procedure dates, results, medications, and doses.
4. Take care of your hair and skin. Cancer treatments can cause blotches and dry patches on the skin as well as hair loss. Use hypoallergenic and fragrance-free products to minimize the risk of allergic reactions and irritation. Use 100 percent aloe to soothe radiation burns, and wear a broad-spectrum (UVA- and UVB-screening) high SPF sunscreen every day. Stick to the basics and save the spa for when treatment ends.
5. Write in a journal. Evidence suggests that recording your feelings and experiences can help you deal with grief, reduce stress and depression, and provides an outlet. It may even strengthen your immune system.
6. Hydrate. Drink plenty of water and clear fluids such as green tea.
7. Participate in a support group. When you're having a difficult day, reach out to your network of fellow cancer patients. They can offer coping suggestions, or just listen.
8. Prevent infections. Cancer treatments wear down the immune system, making you vulnerable to infections. Keep your skin clean and moist, and wear protective gloves and be careful not to cut yourself shaving. Clean cuts and bites thoroughly, and bandage wounds promptly.
9. Rest and relax. Fatigue is a common symptom of both cancer and cancer treatments. Take time every day to do something relaxing-pray, meditate, practice yoga, or listen to music—whatever works for you.
10. Eat. You need to keep up your strength and manage side effects. Your food needs may change when you have cancer, so talk with your physician, oncology nurse, or dietitian about what you should and shouldn't eat. Eat protein when you are feeling well and have an appetite, and include foods with cancer-fighting power, such as
- berries
- cruciferous and dark leafy vegetables (like cabbage, turnips, and broccoli)
- whole grains
- legumes
- beans
- green tea
Save your favorite foods for non-treatment days so you can enjoy them without developing upsetting associations.
LeslieBeth Wish, EDD, MSS, reviewed this article.
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