You have been thrust into a health crisis. Nobody could have seen it coming. You are too busy for this life disruption. You have work, a husband/partner, kids, responsibilities. There is no time for this. It is an inconvenience. I am too healthy. It can all be overwhelming. So who has time for self-care? What even is Self-Care?
Self-Care is the process of taking purposeful care of your own health and well-being. It is one of the most powerful tools you have to regain control over your health and well being. When everything else seems to be spinning out of control, it can give you a sense of control back.
In the midst of a health crisis, self-care may be the furthest thing from your mind. Being diagnosed and recovering from a medical illness can throw you into “survival mode”, You are just trying to get through it, and keep everyone else taken care of. Striving to regain a sense of normalcy. As women, we often put others first. Somehow our own identity can get lost in the shuffle. We go about life trying to make things “as normal as possible” for everyone else, maybe even fooling ourselves into believing everything is normal. But things are not normal after a cancer diagnosis and they never will be again. You will never be the same again. Focusing on self care can help you manage stress and improve your overall physical and emotional health as you move forward.
Taking the time to slow down and rediscover yourself can turn a life hurdle into a blessing. It can become a chance for self-discovery. By discovering your own dreams and needs, it can actually help you in the recovery process and lead to a more fulfilling life. It makes you be more purposeful in your life and relationships, not just a robot going through the motions.
Self-Care involves seven pillars: Mental, Social, Physical, Spiritual, Recreational, Environmental, and Emotional. Here are some tips to get you started:
Start a journal. Emptying some of the clutter in your mind onto paper is a good first place to start. Buy a pretty journal, keep it next to your bed, and make a habit of making daily entries. Just let the words flow and watch your mind clear.
Take care of your physical health. Movement is important, Find something you enjoy. You don’t have to run a marathon, maybe it is just a walk or ride outside. Being out in nature can help to clear your head and slow down all of the clutter rushing through your mind. Eat good, healthy food. Nourishing your body will improve your overall health.
Set goals for yourself. At first make them small and attainable. This can help replace negative emotions with positive ones. Always focus on the positive, and put the negative to the back burner.
Focus on positive social connections. Often these relationships change following a health crisis. Surround yourself with the people that make you feel good about yourself and bring out the best in you. Make these connections a priority.
Relax. Take a trip, even if it is for a day or a long weekend. Read a book, watch a movie, get a massage or a pedicure. Take the time to take care of yourself.
Self-Care is not being selfish. It is taking time to take care of yourself. Everyone in your life will benefit from you taking care of you. But most importantly, you will benefit. A healthy self-care journey takes time and practice. It means stepping out of your comfort zone, exploring your inner child, finding what fuels you and reflecting on what makes you happy. Unlock the things that might have gotten stifled as the responsibilities of real life took over your time and energy. It can ultimately lead to a more fulfilling life-a life filled with purpose. Start discovering you again and regain control of your life. Embrace your “new me.”
Lori Sumner, is a physician assistant and has her master’s in health sciences and has practiced medicine for almost 30 years in the Charlotte/Lake Norman area. She is married to her husband, Mark and they have 3 sons. In May of 2017, she was diagnosed with breast cancer. Through her own breast cancer journey she saw the need for more health and wellness resources for cancer patients and her interest in solving the need grew. Through Anchor Health Coaching, founded in May 2023, It is her mission to empower breast cancer patients with understanding and knowledge by leading you through your breast cancer journey so that you can return to the things that matter most.
By: Lori Sumner, MHS, PA-C | Anchor Health Coaching
