The After Cancer Blog

The benefits of pet adoption For cancer survivors, the journey of healing extends beyond physical recovery . Adopting a pet can have several positive impacts on your overall well-being. Pets provide companionship, unconditional love, and emotional support, which can be especially beneficial during the challenging post-treatment phase. Studies have shown that interacting with animals can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, and even lower blood pressure and improve cardiovascular health. The presence of a furry friend can bring joy, laughter, and a sense of purpose to your life. Choosing the right pet When considering pet adoption, it's important to choose the right pet that fits your lifestyle and needs. Factors such as your living situation, activity level, and any specific considerations related to your health should be taken into account. Dogs are known for their loyalty and active nature, which can encourage exercise and social interaction. Cats offer calming companionship and can be particularly suitable for those with limited mobility or a quieter lifestyle. Other options like small mammals, birds, or fish can also provide comfort and entertainment. Take care of your mental health While the presence of a pet can bring immense joy, it's essential to prioritize your mental health during the healing journey . Establish a routine for your pet's care, including regular feeding, exercise, and veterinary check-ups. This routine can provide structure and a sense of purpose, benefiting both you and your furry friend. However, remember that pets require time, attention, and financial commitment. Make sure you are prepared for the responsibilities of pet ownership and have a support system in place to assist when needed. Additionally, continue to focus on your own mental well-being. Engage in self-care activities that bring you happiness and relaxation. Seek support from friends, family, or cancer support groups. Consider speaking with a mental health professional to address any lingering emotional challenges or anxieties. Adopting a pet after cancer treatment can be a rewarding and healing experience. The companionship, love, and support they provide can have a positive impact on your mental and emotional well-being. By choosing the right pet and taking care of your mental health, you can enhance your healing journey and create a fulfilling bond that lasts a lifetime.

First step: discover your passion Cancer survivors often view their recovery as an opportunity for a fresh start, including a potential career change. The first step in exploring new career paths is to discover your passion. Reflect on your interests, values, and skills, and consider what activities bring you joy and fulfillment. Engage in self-assessment exercises or seek career counseling to gain clarity on your strengths and interests. Identifying your passion will help guide your career exploration and decision-making. Building a successful career plan Once you have identified your passion, it's important to build a solid career plan. Research and explore different industries, job roles, and required qualifications. Consider transferable skills from your previous work experience and determine if you need additional education or training. Networking with professionals in your desired field can provide valuable insights and connections. Set clear goals, both short-term and long-term, and create a step-by-step plan to achieve them. Embrace opportunities for professional development, such as workshops, online courses, or certifications, to enhance your skills and increase your marketability. Seeking wellness after treatment While embarking on a new career path, it's crucial to prioritize your wellness and self-care . Balancing the demands of a career change with ongoing physical and emotional healing is essential. Practice self-compassion and give yourself time to adjust. Maintain a healthy lifestyle by incorporating regular exercise, nutritious meals, and sufficient rest. Engage in stress-reducing activities like meditation, mindfulness, or hobbies you enjoy. Seek support from friends, family, or support groups to navigate any challenges or uncertainties. Additionally, consider disclosing your cancer survivorship to potential employers if it may impact your work or require accommodations. Many organizations have supportive policies and may value the resilience and unique perspective that cancer survivors bring to the workplace. A career change after cancer can be a transformative and empowering experience. By discovering your passion, building a career plan, and prioritizing wellness, you can explore new paths and find fulfilling opportunities. Embrace the journey with optimism, resilience, and the belief that you have the strength to create a successful and rewarding career after cancer.

Maddy is a cancer survivor, diagnosed with Stage 2 Hodgkins Lymphoma in 2018 that found her way into a healthier lifestyle after cancer treatments. She is a Certified Integrative Nutrition Health Coach based in Los Angeles who provides coaching programs to help others achieve their health goals through holistic nutrition. My top 5 recommendations for cancer survivors I’m Maddy Pollack , Hodgkins Lymphoma survivor, and Integrative Nutrition Health Coach and these are my top five recommendations that cancer survivors should be doing once active treatment ends. These recommendations are meant to help you move through this next phase of life. Survivorship is hard , just because we’re done with treatment, doesn’t mean we bounce back right away. It takes time for our bodies and minds to recover from the trauma that we just went through after our cancer diagnosis, surgery, chemo, and/or radiation. If you’re in this phase now, you may feel scared, lost, confused as to where to start when it comes to taking care of yourself, and frustrated that there’s a lack of guidance. Let me just tell you, you’re not alone - every cancer survivor I’ve ever spoken with has felt this way once treatment ends, including me. Let’s get into the top five things that helped me after treatment, and help my clients: Add in anti-inflammatory foods After treatment of any kind, we tend to have a lot of extra unnecessary inflammation in the body as our bodies are trying to protect us from everything we just put into our bodies. We also likely have extra stress from cancer, which also causes inflammation in the body. Ongoing inflammation is not good for us as it can manifest as joint pain, brain fog , fatigue , pain around scar tissue, irregular hormones, heart disease, and tons of other issues, so it’s important we handle it head-on. Adding in anti-inflammatory foods can help immensely with reducing this type of inflammation. Some of the best anti-inflammatory foods include: Avocados Extra virgin olive oil Cherries Berries Walnuts Chia seeds Salmon Tuna Dark leafy greens Try adding these into your diet at least once per day to help your body flush out the toxins and reduce inflammation. Reduce refined sugars We typically all have heard to avoid sugar because “it feeds your cancer.” While that’s not necessarily true, refined sugars do cause inflammation in the body and if we already have additional inflammation from our treatments, then we need to provide an environment where we’re allowing our bodies to heal and reduce it. That’s why reducing refined sugars is so important, so we’re not adding more inflammation to the body. I always recommend replacing refined sugars (think processed sugars, like candy, chocolate bars, cookies, etc.) with natural sugars, like fruit, dark chocolate (at least 80% cacao), nut butter, etc.) so you can still satisfy the want for something sweet without adding more inflammation in the body. And there’s always a balance with everything, so rather than needing to cut out sugars entirely, start to think of what a healthy balance could look like. If you find your sugar cravings are super strong, I do recommend cutting it out for 2 weeks to reduce cravings. Start a regular mindfulness practice to reduce stress Reducing your stress and anxiety after treatment is key to your healing. We can have ruminating thoughts a lot after treatment around recurrence or if something else bad is going to happen, which is super normal, but there are ways ro reduce it. We need to reduce these thoughts so that we maintain our mental health, but also to reduce inflammation in the body. As stated above, stress also plays a big role in inflammation. Some of my favorite mindfulness practices , include: Gratitude journaling Meditation Yoga Conscious breathing/breathwork Brain drain (set a timer for 5 mins and journal everything out on paper that comes to your mind) Mindful walking in nature By starting a regular practice, you can help your mind come back to the present and reduce anxiety about the past or future. Prioritize sleep - at least 7-8 hours per night Sleep is SO IMPORTANT for our overall health, especially after treatment to help our bodies heal and recover. And sleep can be one of the hardest things to do because we’re so stressed and it’s a quiet time where our thoughts can take over. Create a great sleep routine for yourself that allows you to come back to the present and calm down. I recommend avoiding screens at least 30 mins before sleep as well so that your body can start to understand it’s time to wind down from the day. What could your nighttime routine look like? Maybe it’s 20 minutes of getting ready (brushing teeth, washing face, etc.), 30 minutes of reading and a 10 minute meditation before you fall asleep. Whatever that is for you, prioritize it as much as you can, even on the nights you don’t want to. Find community & support Lastly, but most definitely not least, find community and support with other survivors and people that understand where you’re coming from. Unless you’ve been through cancer, you just don’t get it so it’s important to find support in the cancer community so that you avoid feeling isolated and can connect with people who do understand where you’re coming from. You can always connect with me on Instagram @maddypollack_health or you’re in the right place here at theaftercancer.com ! Be patient with your mind and body after cancer, it takes time to heal and recover from everything you just went through, and know that you’re not alone.

The empowering role of education Education plays a crucial role in the lives of cancer survivors , offering not only intellectual growth but also empowerment and a sense of normalcy after the challenges of treatment. Pursuing higher education or vocational training can provide you with new opportunities, career prospects, and personal fulfillment. Scholarships specifically designed for cancer survivors can help alleviate the financial burden and make these educational aspirations more accessible. Top scholarships for cancer survivors Several organizations and foundations recognize the unique challenges faced by cancer survivors and offer scholarships to support their educational endeavors. These scholarships aim to empower you and provide you with the means to pursue your academic goals. Some notable scholarships for cancer survivors include the Cancer for College Scholarship, The Ulman Foundation Scholarship Program , and The National Collegiate Cancer Foundation Scholarship. It's important for aspiring applicants to research and understand the specific eligibility criteria, application deadlines, and required documentation for each scholarship opportunity. You may also find scholarships available through local community organizations, cancer support groups, or regional foundations. Self-care after cancer While pursuing educational opportunities is important, it's equally vital to prioritize self-care during this journey. Managing physical and emotional well-being is crucial to maintain a healthy balance while juggling academic responsibilities. You should focus on maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate rest. Engaging in stress-reducing activities, such as meditation , mindfulness, or participating in support groups , can help manage emotional well-being. It's also essential to communicate with professors, advisors, or campus support services about any accommodations or resources needed due to ongoing treatment or recovery. Seeking academic and emotional support from peers, mentors, or counseling services can contribute to a positive educational experience. Scholarships provide an invaluable opportunity to pursue higher education or vocational training while easing the financial burden. By embracing educational opportunities and accessing scholarships tailored to your needs, you can empower yourself, unlock your potential, and build a promising future. But it's equally important to prioritize self-care and seek support to maintain overall well-being throughout your educational journey.

Convenience and accessibility Telehealth has revolutionized healthcare delivery, offering numerous benefits for cancer survivors. Through virtual consultations and remote monitoring, telehealth provides convenience and accessibility, overcoming barriers such as distance, transportation, and scheduling conflicts. Survivors can connect with their healthcare providers from the comfort of their own homes, reducing the need for frequent travel and allowing for more flexible appointment times. How to prepare for a telehealth appointment Preparing for a telehealth appointment is crucial to ensure a smooth and effective experience. Start by ensuring you have a stable internet connection and a device (such as a smartphone, tablet, or computer) with a camera and microphone. Test the technology beforehand to address any potential issues. Make a list of questions or concerns you wish to discuss during the appointment. It can be helpful to gather any relevant medical records, test results, or medication information beforehand, ensuring they are easily accessible during the virtual consultation. Dress comfortably and find a quiet, private space where you can engage in the appointment without distractions. Empowering self-management Telehealth empowers cancer survivors to take an active role in their healthcare and self-management. Virtual appointments allow for open communication, enabling you to discuss symptoms , side effects, and emotional well-being with your healthcare providers. Remote monitoring tools, such as wearable devices or at-home monitoring kits, enable you to track your vital signs, medication adherence, and progress, providing valuable data for healthcare professionals to assess and adjust treatment plans. Telehealth also promotes education and self-care. You can access online resources, educational materials, and support groups to enhance your knowledge and connect with peers. Remote consultations often encourage you to actively participate in decision-making and goal-setting, fostering a sense of empowerment and control over your health journey . By embracing telehealth, you can overcome barriers to care, prepare for appointments effectively, and take charge of your self-management. In fact, telehealth offers numerous benefits, including convenience, accessibility, and the empowerment to actively engage in your healthcare. With the continued advancements in technology, telehealth is playing a vital role in improving the overall well-being and quality of life for cancer survivors.

Activities, programs, and resources offered at cancer camps Cancer camps provide a unique and empowering experience for survivors and their families, offering a range of activities, programs, and resources to support their journey after treatment . These specialized camps are designed to create a supportive and inclusive environment where you can connect with others who have shared similar experiences. Cancer camps offer a variety of activities tailored to your specific needs and interests. These may include adventure challenges, arts and crafts, sports, nature exploration, and therapeutic programs such as music or art therapy. These activities not only promote physical well-being but also foster emotional healing , self-expression, and personal growth. In addition to recreational activities, cancer camps provide valuable programs and resources. Educational workshops on topics like nutrition, exercise, and managing post-treatment challenges help you and your family make informed decisions about your health and well-being. The camps often invite guest speakers, including healthcare professionals and survivors, who can provide insights, guidance, and inspiration. The right fit for your purpose Choosing the right cancer camp is essential to ensure the best experience and support for your individual needs. Consider factors such as location, duration, age range, and program offerings when selecting a camp. It's important to research and assess each camp's mission, values, and approach to ensure alignment with personal goals and interests. Some camps focus on specific age groups, such as pediatric or young adult survivors, while others welcome individuals of all ages. Additionally, consider whether a camp is designed for survivors only or includes family members, as this may influence the dynamics and overall experience. Finding help after cancer Cancer camps not only provide survivors with an opportunity for personal growth and connection but also serve as gateways to additional support and resources. Many camps maintain year-round connections with participants through alumni programs, online communities, and referrals to support services. These networks can facilitate ongoing communication, access to specialized healthcare providers , and continued emotional support after leaving the camp. Remember that cancer camps are just one part of the support system available to you. Seeking additional help, such as counseling or joining local support groups, can provide continued assistance in navigating the challenges and emotions that may arise post-treatment. Cancer camps offer a transformative experience for you and your family, providing a supportive and empowering environment for growth, connection, and healing. By participating in activities, programs, and resources offered at these camps, you can find support, inspiration, and a sense of belonging as you embark on your new life after treatment.

Common signs and examples Discrimination in the workplace can be a distressing reality for cancer survivors. Despite legal protections in many countries, survivors may still encounter unfair treatment, bias, or discrimination due to their cancer history. Understanding the common signs and examples of workplace discrimination can empower you to recognize and address these issues. Examples of workplace discrimination may include being denied promotions or job opportunities, receiving unequal pay, experiencing unwarranted negative comments or actions, being subjected to a hostile work environment, or facing unfair policies or practices related to time off or accommodations for medical needs. It is important to be aware of these signs and to recognize your rights in order to take appropriate action. Steps to take when facing discrimination When facing discrimination in the workplace, it is crucial to take proactive steps to protect your rights. Start by documenting instances of discrimination, including dates, times, witnesses, and any relevant details. This documentation will serve as evidence if further action is required. Next, consult with a legal professional who specializes in employment law to understand the legal protections and options available. They can you on how to file a complaint or pursue legal action if needed. Additionally, consider reaching out to organizations or support groups that focus on workplace rights for cancer survivors, as they may offer resources, guidance, and advocacy. Keep an eye on your mental health Facing workplace discrimination can be emotionally challenging for cancer survivors. It is essential to prioritize mental health and seek support when needed. Reach out to counselors, therapists , or support groups specifically designed for cancer survivors to discuss the emotional impact of discrimination and to develop coping strategies. Practicing self-care, such as engaging in stress-reducing activities , maintaining a healthy work-life balance , and seeking moments of relaxation, can also help manage the emotional toll of workplace discrimination. Taking care of one's mental health is vital for overall well-being, resilience, and the ability to navigate the challenges that may arise. Workplace discrimination after cancer is an unfortunate reality for some survivors. Recognizing the signs, documenting instances of discrimination, seeking legal guidance, and prioritizing mental health are important steps towards protecting one's rights and well-being. By advocating for yourself and taking appropriate action, you can create a more equitable and supportive work environment for yourself and others.

The power of music therapy Music therapy has proven to be a powerful tool for promoting healing and enhancing well-being among cancer survivors. It utilizes the transformative properties of music to address physical, emotional, and psychological needs . Through the intentional use of music, therapy sessions can provide a safe and supportive environment for expression, relaxation, and personal growth. Music has the ability to evoke emotions, transport individuals to a different state of mind, and promote a sense of comfort and calm . It can serve as a source of solace and a means of connecting with oneself and others. In the context of cancer survivorship, music therapy offers a unique avenue for you to process your experiences, express your feelings, and find strength and hope in your journey. Techniques and approach Music therapy sessions may involve various techniques, depending on your individual needs and preferences. These can include playing musical instruments, singing, songwriting, listening to music, and engaging in rhythmic activities. The therapist works closely with you to tailor the sessions to your specific goals and desired outcomes. The therapeutic relationship between you and the music therapist is crucial. The therapist creates a supportive and non-judgmental space where you can freely explore your emotions, memories, and experiences through music. The therapist may guide you in creating personalized playlists, composing songs, or engaging in improvisational music-making, all aimed at promoting self-expression and healing. Keep caring about mental health after cancer While music therapy can be a transformative experience, it is essential to continue caring for your mental health beyond therapy sessions. Engaging in self-care practices, such as mindfulness, meditation , or relaxation exercises, can complement the benefits of music therapy. Additionally, seeking support from mental health professionals or participating in support groups can provide ongoing emotional support and a sense of community. You should prioritize your mental well-being and be proactive in addressing any psychological challenges that may arise. This may include seeking counseling or therapy to process emotions, manage anxiety or depression , and develop coping strategies. Just as the body requires care and attention during and after cancer treatment, the mind also requires nurturing and support to foster long-term healing and well-being. Music therapy can offer you a powerful avenue for healing, self-expression, and personal growth. Through the transformative properties of music, you can explore your emotions, find comfort, and connect with yourself and others. By complementing music therapy with ongoing mental health care and self-care practices, you can continue to nurture your well-being and embrace the benefits of music in your post-cancer journey.

Benefits of survivorship programs Cancer survivorship programs play a crucial role in supporting individuals after they have completed their cancer treatment. These programs offer a range of services and resources specifically designed to address the unique needs of cancer survivors. By participating in survivorship programs, you can experience numerous benefits that contribute to your overall well-being. Survivorship programs provide a sense of community and connection, allowing you to interact with others who have undergone similar experiences. This camaraderie fosters a supportive environment where you can share your story, exchange advice, and find understanding and empathy. The sense of belonging that comes from being part of a community of survivors can be incredibly empowering and validating. Addressing physical and emotional needs Survivorship programs focus not only on the physical aspects of survivorship but also on the emotional and psychological well-being of individuals. These programs often include access to healthcare professionals who specialize in post-treatment care. These experts can address any lingering physical side effects or concerns and provide guidance on managing long-term symptoms or potential late effects of treatment. Moreover, survivorship programs frequently offer counseling or mental health support services. As a cancer survivor, you may experience a wide range of emotions, such as anxiety, fear of recurrence , or depression. Having access to professionals who can provide emotional support, coping strategies, and tools for managing these feelings is invaluable. The programs can also help you navigate the transition back to your normal life and adjust to the changes that come with post-treatment survivorship . Long-term well-being Survivorship programs prioritize long-term well-being by focusing on healthy lifestyle choices and providing education on maintaining a balanced and fulfilling life after cancer. These programs often offer resources on nutrition , exercise , stress management, and self-care. By encouraging cancer survivors to adopt healthy habits, survivorship programs promote physical strength and resilience, reduce the risk of recurrence, and enhance overall quality of life. In addition, survivorship programs may provide information on follow-up care and regular screenings to monitor for any potential recurrence or new health concerns. Through these proactive measures, you can stay informed about your health status and take necessary steps to ensure early detection and intervention if needed. Cancer survivorship programs are vital, as you navigate life after treatment. These programs offer a wide range of benefits, including community support, addressing physical and emotional needs, and promoting long-term well-being. By participating in survivorship programs, you can find the necessary tools, resources, and support to lead a fulfilling and healthy life beyond your cancer diagnosis.

How personal writing can support cancer survivors Personal journaling, whether done privately or through public blogging, can be a powerful tool for cancer survivors to navigate their emotions , reflect on their journey, and find a sense of empowerment and healing. Writing provides an outlet for self-expression and a safe space to process thoughts, fears, and hopes. Putting thoughts and feelings into words can help you gain clarity, reduce stress, and find a sense of control over your experience. It allows for self-discovery and personal growth, fostering a deeper understanding of yourself and the challenges faced during and after cancer treatment. Secret journaling: the benefits of private reflection Keeping a private journal offers a space for personal reflection and introspection. It provides a sanctuary where survivors can express your deepest emotions without fear of judgment or scrutiny. The act of writing in a secret journal can be cathartic and therapeutic, allowing you to release your emotions, fears, and frustrations. Secret journaling can also serve as a personal record of your journey, capturing important milestones , insights, and moments of triumph. It allows for honest self-reflection and offers an opportunity for personal growth and healing. Public blogging: sharing your story and connecting with the community Public blogging takes personal writing a step further by sharing your experiences with a wider audience. It can be a way to connect with other cancer survivors who have gone through similar challenges, offer support and inspiration to fellow survivors, and raise awareness about the cancer journey. Blogging about your cancer experience allows for a sense of community and provides an avenue for dialogue, encouragement, and validation. It can be a source of strength and empowerment, as survivors use their stories to inspire others and break the stigma surrounding cancer. Public blogging also opens the door to receiving support and feedback from readers, fostering a sense of connection and belonging. It allows you to share your triumphs, challenges, and insights while receiving encouragement and support from a compassionate audience. Whether through private journaling or public blogging, personal writing offers several benefits. It provides a space for reflection, self-expression, and personal growth . Secret journaling allows for private exploration and catharsis, while public blogging enables you to connect with a wider community and share your story. Whichever approach you choose, personal writing can be a powerful tool in the journey towards healing, empowerment, and finding solace in your cancer survivorship.

How does aromatherapy work? Aromatherapy is a complementary therapy that utilizes the power of essential oils from plants (flowers, herbs, or trees) to improve physical, emotional and spiritual well-being. The inhalation or topical application of these oils can stimulate the olfactory system, which is connected to the brain's limbic system responsible for emotions and memory. Aromatherapy can help create a sense of relaxation, reduce stress, and alleviate certain symptoms experienced by cancer survivors. What science says about aromatherapy after cancer Scientific studies have shown promising results regarding the benefits of aromatherapy for cancer survivors. Aromatherapy has been found to improve sleep quality, reduce anxiety and depression, alleviate pain, and manage symptoms such as dry mouth. Essential oils like lavender, chamomile, peppermint, and ginger have been commonly studied for their therapeutic effects. The soothing and calming properties of lavender, for example, have been found to promote better sleep and relaxation. Peppermint and ginger oils may help relieve pain and discomfort. However, while aromatherapy can provide relief, it should not be seen as a replacement for medical treatment or professional advice. Consult a healthcare professional to relieve symptoms While aromatherapy can be beneficial, it is essential to consult with your healthcare professionals before incorporating it into your treatment plan. Certain essential oils may interact with medications or have contraindications for specific health conditions. A healthcare professional can provide guidance on the appropriate use of essential oils, taking into consideration your individual circumstances and potential risks. Healthcare professionals can recommend reputable sources for obtaining high-quality essential oils and provide instructions on proper dilution and application methods. They can also offer personalized advice based on the specific symptoms and needs of the individual. Aromatherapy can in fact be a valuable tool for cancer survivors in managing sleep issues and pain after cancer. Through the use of carefully selected essential oils, it is possible to enhance relaxation , promote better sleep, and alleviate certain symptoms. However, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional to ensure safe and appropriate use, especially considering individual health conditions and medications. With professional guidance, aromatherapy can be incorporated as a complementary approach to support your well-being on your healing journey.

Taffie Lynn Butters is a board-certified health coach at The After Cancer. She's a breast cancer survivor and is passionate about helping others recovering from cancer with lifestyle interventions. Cancer is an emotional roller coaster Cancer is an emotional roller coaster . It’s almost like you go through a grieving process of disbelief, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. If you have been on this roller coaster you recognize the grief. But what about what happens after acceptance, and what about the emotions of the past that you need to release? How the mind-body connection affects healing The mind/body connection is a huge factor in healing. The environment in which your cells are chronically exposed, feed and direct their behavior. Meaning that if you are chronically stressed or in a negative state, so are your cells. Dr. Bruce H. Lipton describes the connection in his book The Biology of Belief , “Thoughts, the mind’s energy, directly influence how the physical brain controls the body’s physiology.” He goes on to describe, “The fact is that harnessing the power of your mind can be more effective than the drugs you have been programmed to believe you need.” Wow, that’s powerful stuff! Thought patterns are passed down in families. You can see them repeated in illnesses. Although we may be predisposed to certain diseases, they are not activated in our DNA without the right conditions. For instance, you may a family history of diabetes or cancer, but the symptom of diabetes or cancer is not activated without the right conditions. However, eating patterns and ways of managing stress are taught and passed down in families, so it’s very likely to develop similar diseases. The influence of thoughts in healing Breaking the cycle of these patterns is possible. Lifestyle interventions transform health. When something as big as cancer creeps into our lives, it’s often time to review and access our habits. Negative thoughts and releasing emotions of the past are a part of healing. Using powerful daily affirmations can literally rewire your brain and put your body on a path to healing . Affirmations will look different for everyone. You can make up your own or start with written ones. Regardless, work with the ones that ring true for you. The ones that you read, and you feel it in your soul. Think about where will you use these affirmations – on a walk or before you get out of bed? Pick a time of the day and be consistent. Make a commitment to yourself and repeat these statements over and over. Daily affirmation is an act of self-love. Your body is listening, and eventually, you will automatically default to these thought patterns. You will change the cycle and help heal your body! Here are some ideas to get you started: I am in control of my mind and my body. My body is healed and restored. I release all causes of dis-ease from my past and now move into a state of health and happiness. I am getting better moment by moment day by day. I love who I am as a person.