Ok, I’m in remission. Now what?
Image Source: FreeImages
Whether you’ve just received your cancer diagnosis or if you’re in remission, it can feel like the world is coming to an end. You may feel like your life is over and there’s no going back. But you can get through the first few weeks after treatment if you have support and are patient. The good news is that most cancer patients respond well to treatment and have long, healthy lives. Depending on your cancer type, your treatment options may vary slightly. However, the goals are similar for everyone: get well again, live a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and exercise regularly, and keep up as much of your previous routine as possible during treatment. Even though you may not feel ready now, preparing for the future will make things easier when the time comes for you to return to living life again.
Get well again
When you’re sick, it’s normal to feel sad, guilty, and scared that you might never feel better. Your loved ones may also experience these emotions, so it’s important to talk about them. If you feel guilty for being sick, ask yourself why. Do you believe that you’re not doing enough for your health? You’re overwhelmed by all the changes in your life. If so, remember that this is only a trial period that you will have to endure. Once you’re better, cancer won’t dictate the rest of your life. You’ll be able to go back to living as you used to.
Keep up as much of your routine as possible
Many cancers are often treated with surgeries, which can be major operations with long recovery times. It may not be easy to continue your regular activities while recovering. However, it’s essential to keep doing what you can. For example, you may not be able to return to work for a while. You may need to make specific changes in your work style when you do. If your job requires you to be on your feet all day, ask your employer if there’s a way to reduce the amount of standing you do. Take frequent breaks, sit down when you can, and choose different workstations if you don’t have to be at your desk. Even if you can’t return to your routine immediately, there are ways to ease back into it. For example, find a way to include more veggies and fruits into your diet. It may mean choosing your meals at home instead of eating at your usual place. Avoid drinking too much soda and other sugary drinks because these can be high in sodium and potassium, which can be toxic to your body if you have thyroid issues. Once you’re better, explore ways to keep fit, such as yoga, walking, hiking, or swimming.
Stay fit and eat healthily.
The best way to feel better once you’re well again is to eat well. Make sure you’re eating a balanced diet that meets your needs for vitamins, minerals, protein, fats, and carbohydrates. Many healthy eating plans can help you reach your goals. Some may be easier for you than others. If you need to follow someone else’s dream, ensure you have enough flexibility in your schedule to follow it as closely as you need to. Before you start a new healthy eating plan, try changing one thing at a time. Eat like you usually do for a few days, then change one thing at a time. For example, you can start by skipping one snack or eating one less serving of a particular food. It may take a few days to weeks, or even months, to realize what you’ve lost in energy and stamina, so don’t get frustrated.
Strive for balance
Even if you’re feeling well again, take your cancer more seriously. However, it’s important to remember that you’re in a time immediately after treatment when everything you do now will affect your health. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle while you wait to be told when your treatment is over is essential. The best way to do this is to be mindful of what you do. This means taking extra care when you’re out and about, especially if you feel sick or dizzy. Keeping a journal or a fitness tracker to track your daily activities and habits may also be helpful. If you notice you’re overdoing it, you can take a break and return to it when you feel better. Choose healthier activities, like walking, swimming, or gardening, instead of doing dangerous things like mountain climbing or skydiving. It’s also important to remember that you’ll be in a better position to make healthy choices for your health once you’re well.
Take care of yourself.
The best way to feel better once you’re well again is to eat well. Make sure you’re eating a balanced diet that meets your needs for vitamins, minerals, protein, fats, and carbohydrates. Many healthy eating plans can help you reach your goals. Some may be easier for you than others. If you need to follow someone else’s dream, make sure you have enough flexibility in your schedule to follow it as closely as you need to. Before you start a new healthy eating plan, try changing one thing at a time. Eat like you usually do for a few days, then change one thing at a time. For example, you can start by skipping one snack or eating one less serving of a particular food. The best way to care for yourself is to do so every day. Make a list of things you need to do and things you want to do. Write down the things you need to get done and want to do. Take care of yourself by doing what you need to do and enjoying what you want. The best way to ensure you take care of yourself is to list everything you need to get done and everything you want to do. The more you take care of yourself, the better you’ll feel.