Feelings of stress are common for many, especially for people living with lung cancer. Though it may seem impossible to eliminate stress completely, there are a number of things that will help reduce it.
Physical Exercise
There are many benefits of exercising and moving your body, even if it’s just for a few minutes. Before you start exercising, it’s a good idea to talk to your doctor about what kind of activity would be safe for you. You may want to start by going on a short walk with a loved one or try doing light yoga at home. Low-impact aerobic activity can make a big difference for your mind and body. Research suggests that exercise during cancer treatment can relieve stress, and improve quality of life.
Need some ideas? Here are some examples of low-impact exercises:
- Walking around the block or to the mailbox
- Simple stretching
- Lifting light weights at home (for example, 2 lb weights, a can of soup, or a bag of flour)
- Deep breathing for relaxation
The Power of the Mind
Practicing meditation and mindfulness can be considered a type of mind-body exercise that helps you focus on the present moment. Meditating is known to produce a deep state of relaxation and can help eliminate the stream of thoughts that may be crowding your mind.
Practicing meditation and mindfulness can promote a sense of calm, peace, and balance that can help emotional well-being and overall health. Some of the easiest ways for beginners to practice is simply by breathing deeply or repeating a mantra. Remember, there’s no right or wrong way to meditate.
Ready to start practicing mindfulness through meditation? These simple steps could help.
Prayer & Faith
Practicing religion may not be for everyone, but it can be helpful for some people during difficult times. Being part of a congregation or community helps to provide a social support system, which can play a major role in overall happiness and health.
Research shows that people who are more religious or spiritual use their spirituality to cope with challenges. Spirituality can help you feel more connected to the world and others around you. When you feel part of a greater whole, it's easier to understand that you're not in control of what happens in life.
If you’re experiencing stress and worry from getting a scan ("scanxiety"), there are a few tips that could help you prepare for your next appointment.