We can learn a lot from the animals in our lives. Here’s what your pet can teach you about recovering from breast cancer:
Be yourself
A shaved head? Scars where a breast used to be? Tiny tell-tale tattoos designed for radiation techs to target your tumors? They’re all part of your beautiful story, physical proof of your inner strength and resilience. Your pet doesn’t need movie-star good looks to reinforce his self image and neither do you. Just like your pet, you are precious and lovable exactly the way you are.
Live in the moment
Your pet’s not worried about what’s going to happen tomorrow. He’s too busy enjoying his favorite toy, person, or napping position. Take a lesson from your furry friend and enjoy the moment. Try to let go of the things you can’t control anyway.
Take a walk
Even a short walk can restore your soul. Put on a coat, put up an umbrella, and put down that electronic screen. Treat yourself to the new perspective that waits for you just outside your door. And even if roses are out of season in your neighborhood, your pet can show you that there’s always other fresh and interesting smells to stop and enjoy along the way.
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Eat with enthusiasm
Even if chemo is playing tricks with your tastebuds, watching your pet joyfully devour any morsel of food available can help you remember that food is one of life’s great pleasures. Find something palatable and enjoy it.
Go outside
After you’ve been outside on a beautiful day, do you ever notice how stuffy it feels when you come back home? Your pet knows it’s important to get fresh air and sunshine every day. Exercise is a good thing and speeds recovery, but going outside to get it heals your soul along with your body. Even if you take only a few minutes to marvel at the stars twinkling overhead, don’t forget that the outdoors is a wonderful resource, and make it part of your recovery.
Love unconditionally
Have you ever seen an animal leap for joy when someone they love comes home after an absence? It’s a pet’s way of saying thank you, and it’s charming. Your pet doesn’t remember yesterday when you ate the last piece of chicken or forgot to play fetch. Although cancer comes with moments of misery, don’t let it obscure the vision of all the love in your life right now.
Get plenty of sleep
When your pet’s tired, he doesn’t fight it. He finds a spot, curls up, and tunes out. Breast cancer recovery is exhausting. Take a clue from your animal and take a nap.
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