Breast Cancer And Stress: Breath, Stretch, Shop And Craft It Away
April 20th, 2012 by Miss Nixon
Miss Nixon enjoying a Spa Day with other breast cancer survivors!
Researchers have linked stress to breast cancer. Stress actually can promote cancer indirectly by weakening the immune system. Stress increases cortisol and this in turn suppresses the immune system. Every person experiences stress. Some people manage their stress better than others. It is super important to identify stressors in your life. Once you know what stresses you out, try some of these suggestions when you feel a stress headache coming on or need to alleviate a certain pain in your neck (aka your nagging mom).
Keep in mind what works for me might not be your cup of tea. So figure out what works for your style….see below mellow tactics or more active approaches:
Take it down a notch:
Rest, change your environment, listen to some music, try yoga, get a massage, take a hot bath, hang with your pet, try gratitude journaling, try an acupuncture session, smell the essential oil Ylang-Ylang, take a second to check your breathing. Lie on the ground, close your eyes, slowly inhale and silently count to three. Now exhale while silently counting to four. Do it until you feel calm. This helps your nervous system come into a healthy balance.
Kick it up a notch:
Get out in nature, dance, get crafting or work on an art project, take a vacation, or hang with a funny friend (laughter is a natural antidote to stress), go for a hike, run, or walk. Or if your stress seems unmanageable by you try some psychotherapy or counseling or a support groups to see if this eases your mind.
Let us know what works for you to distress.
Xoxo
Miss Nixon
Tags: amanda nixon, ask miss nixon, breast cancer stress, Miss Nixon, Stress Reduction
