Cancer is one of the most terrifying modern words in the English language. For generations, it has struck fear in to the hearts of those touched by it. Survivors may inspire us, but without a cure, it can be hard to know what to do when faced with it.
Ideally, cancer should be discussed openly within the family. Sometimes, disclosure of cancer becomes hush-hush. This doesn’t help. For family members who may be reading this, think about the needs of the one you love. How about saying: “I’d like to take you out to dinner and give you a hug. You can talk to me anytime you want to. This is the best way to reach me. You can feel free to call me, and can count on me. ” Extending your emotional support will help your loved one feel connected to a larger whole. Being a part of a group is a human need, particularly in times of crisis. If there are others around to catch you, it cushions the fall from such hard news. If the one you love is crying, touch them on the shoulder, hold their hand, show a gesture of love and compassion.
Even without a cure, there are several well known ways to confront the development of cancer. There are no guarantees, obviously, but each of us can make improvements in our lives. Through a few simple steps, anyone can ensure that their health is optimal. One of the prevention methods is eating a healthy diet full of fruits and vegetables. The daily recommend dose is five per day. Some health practitioners even recommend nine per day. Organic supermarkets offer an impressive array of nutritional foods.
Second, it is essential to commit to a regular exercise schedule. One of the more indirect causes of cancer can be psychological stress. Having a physical outlet can reduce the impact of stress on the body. Just yesterday, I heard of a woman who developed a cancer after the death of her husband. This stressor may have created a sense of isolation and overwhelming sadness. Thus, finding healthy ways to eat well, exercise, and connect to others help maintain psychological balance, decrease stress and increases overall health and well-being.
Finally, another contributor to cancer includes the build-up of toxins in the body. There are toxins throughout our modern lives, in car exhaust, food preservatives, pest control, and more. You should not drive yourself crazy trying to avoid all toxins, since it is virtually impossible, but you can take steps to reduce them. Smoking is essentially slow-killing poison, so if you have a smoking habit, try to end it now! Besides that, read the labels on food, to know what you are putting into your body, and, again, exercise. Sweating, re-hydrating with water, and abstaining from unhealthy foods will help your body detox. Beyond that, certain foods encourage detoxing. Ginger root, dandelion root, and garlic are famous for it, but there are plenty of others too. Get an herbal medicine book, and see what simple, delicious improvements you can make.
One of the remarkable aspects of cancer is the power of the human mind to control its spread. Being aware of one’s health through conscious action has a huge benefit in the long-run.
If you are diagnosed with cancer, maintaining positive examples of survivors in your mind can be a source of comfort and inspiration. If cancer is in your family, even if you are not diagnosed, you should be aware of the risks, and what you can do. A ‘hero’ or ‘heroine’ is an anchor in the midst of this very difficult news. You are not alone in the fight. There are many others who you can talk to and ask for support. There is a wealth of resources out there, from support groups to medicines.
Your close friends and family are also key sources of support. There are people who can lend a sympathetic hand or ear. It is best to stay open to someone who is positive and reassuring, and avoid those who are negative. Treating yourself as well as possible once you have the news is an effective coping strategy.
