HOW TO PRACTICE SELF-LOVE AND BODY POSITIVITY AFTER CANCER

Life after cancer can be a confusing time for some. Of course, it’s a time filled with relief and hope, but for some it’s also a time filled with worries and concerns about whether the cancer may return.

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Post cancer, one starts to reflect and realise the full extent of the changes that have occurred in their lives due to the impact of cancer and the effects of treatment. These changes do not only affect our physical well-being but there are psychological effects and social barriers to overcome as well. Although it may not be easy, here are a few tips to help you adjust to the changes that come with this life-threatening illness and the journey of self-acceptance post cancer.

1. USE YOUR SUPPORT SYSTEM
Your family and close friends have probably been a part of your journey from the beginning. From the initial news and shock of the diagnosis to the countless medical appointments and treatments. They have seen you at your worst and at your best. In this time of post-cancer treatment, their care and support is still essential. Your family and loved ones can provide you with love, warmth and positive energy that will be great for your spirit. If you aren’t already part of a support group for cancer survivors, now would be a great time as ever to join one. Support groups are important because you are surrounded by like-minded people who have shared the same or similar experience. It might be easier to share your stories, be vulnerable and in turn, encourage and be encouraged by those around you.

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2. HEAL YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH YOUR BODY
As with any changes that occur in your life that aren’t necessarily related to cancer, it takes time to adjust and to become accustomed to those changes. You may look in the mirror and not recognise the person that is staring back at you. Perhaps there were certain aspects about your physical appearance that you took pride in. Don’t allow your mind to be consumed by the negative. Rather look in the mirror and focus on the positive aspects and the new aspects of your physical appearance and embrace it.



3. EXERCISE YOUR BODY & MIND
Incorporating a good and healthy lifestyle is not only essential for your physical health but also your emotional and mental health as well. Eating well will not only help you feel good inside, but this will help you regain strength in your recovery process. Exercise is key in supplying your body with all the good endorphins which aid in healing and helps to relieve pain, keeping you feeling positive.

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4. BE PROUD OF YOUR SCARS
As difficult as it may be, there will come a time in which you need to accept that this is a different version of yourself – not a completely different person. Herein lies the beauty, that you can still be the best version of yourself, even if it’s a different form. The most important aspect when it comes to accepting yourself post-cancer is recognising that you are a survivor. Wear your scars proudly!

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