Cancer Survivorship: Coping with Anxiety
It is SO common for people who have been touched by cancer to deal with anxiety. When it is all said and done, the doctor claims you are in “remission” and the next chapter of your life begins. You then quickly realize you are left with many emotions and feelings that weren’t there prior to cancer, like anxiety.
I struggled with anxiety SO much post cancer. It is so much better now, but believe me I do have my triggers. Here are 6 holistic ways to deal with your anxiety .. 6 ways I have personally tested and found to be incredibly beneficial.
Get a massage- it helps with blood flow, circulation, relaxation and releasing tension from the body. Also, while getting massages you have to breath through it in a certain way to help release tension (mind/body connection is amazing). So start incorporating this self care tool into your calendar, you won’t regret it!
Deep breathing/meditation- I know I know, no one wants to hear about meditation.. but at least trying some deep breathing techniques/exercises can help with allowing your nervous system to calm down and switch gears. It is honestly a game changer and I still practice it every morning and night.
Look at your B Vitamin levels- specifically B6. Are you low? Is there an imbalance? Worth talking to your doc about and investigating.
Eat more nuts- and balanced meals- So important because this helps with food crashes throughout the day. Heart healthy fats such as nuts- and Brazil nuts, specifically, contain Vitamin E and selenium- which is an antioxidant and a mood improver bc it naturally reduces inflammation in the body. Another huge benefit!
Journaling- is your mind constantly racing? Do you get a ton of anxiety at night or in the morning? Journaling allows your mind to empty itself. Get everything on paper, write until you have depleted your thoughts. It allows you to “get it out” and release your mind and body of the pressure of holding all the emotions in.
Get outside- my personal favorite! It’s the best way to stay grounded. If anxiety starts to rise, go for a walk. Sit outside in the sunshine, get some movement in. Sit by the water, walk on the grass. It is a grounding technique to bring you into the present moment and can help in lowering anxiety levels .
Try incorporating at least one of these tips into your daily routine (or weekly). And begin to take notice - do you feel different? Are they helping you cope? And remember, it’s totally normal to experience anxiety post cancer - in your survivorship journey. You are not alone!
What are your favorite ways to reduce anxiety? Please comment below!