When I was going through all my stages after getting diagnosed with breast cancer I wrote the all down and built a game plan. The same approach applies post breast cancer treatment. It doesn't end and that is a blessing. I've worked so hard on putting wellness in the forefront of my daily schedule that it's become a good habit. It's in and there is nothing that is going to come between me and my wellness. We are a solid pair working hand and hand everyday.
Right now I'm working on exercising, nutrition, and meditation. I had a follow-up with my nutritionist and that's when I discovered calories. I never ever had to factor in calories in my life. My chemotherapy treatment pushed me to menopause. I've gained weight and have some stiff joints. One day I wrote down everything I put in my mouth for three full days along with the calorie count. This was an eye opening discovery. I have steel cut oats with fresh fruit along with hot nettle tea just about everyday. That mean right there is over 400 calories. I always looked at sugar but never looked at calories.
I'm very fortunate because LiveStrong teamed up with the YMCA to offer cancer patients a free four month membership which includes a fitness instructor and participating locations. I've never had a fitness instructor in my life. This is pretty darn amazing. We are learning about gym equipment and everything from warming up to cooling down. I haven't been to a gym in a long time. Now I know it's very important to lift weights at least twice a week and now I know the importance of getting my heart rate up. The program ends soon but now I'm going to figure out which facility I will join. I don't want to lost what I've gained.
I just participated today in a chanting fest. I'm learning a lot about meditation, breathing, and the relaxation response. I've come a long way. Stress is always going to be out there and if I continue to learn how to manage it, I will be a happy camper.
The key is to continue working on my wellness as I return back to my job. I've been off for a little over 2 years. I have a lot of passionate people on my wellness team that I will continue to see. I've still got a lot to process. I've learned so much in the past two years. The key for me is to add more of what I love in my day. My aha moment was the day my clinical psychologist told me to write down everything that I love to do and start adding those items in my day.