Astrid’s Blog

Diary of a Cancer Patient: A Frank Account

Welcome, and thank you for joining me. While it is ​universally acknowledged that battling cancer is a ​formidable challenge, many are unaware of the nuances ​involved in living with it daily. This blog seeks to shed light ​on what cancer does to one’s mental well-being, body image, ​and long-term aspirations.

How does one cope with the transition from having sensitive

breasts to experiencing complete numbness? What feelings

accompany never needing to wear a bra again? I will also ​delve into random reflections on navigating life without ​hormones. Moreover, this space aims to address how one ​manages insensitive remarks or hurtful comments while ​maintaining sanity each day. Additionally, we confront the ​sobering reality that comes when high-profile individuals ​succumb to breast cancer—a reminder that such an outcome ​can affect anyone. Through candid discussions interspersed ​with education, advice, and wit, I aim to offer insight into ​my journey—from going from an F cup to an uneven A cup ​and dealing with abdominal bloating.

I never envisioned finding myself in this difficult situation;

nevertheless, here I am—embracing life but doing so ​differently than before—without breasts yet still full of ​spirit.

Love,

Astrid

Hi there, it has been a while! I finally found a quiet ​moment in Jackson, Wyoming to sit down and gather ​some thoughts. I have been so lucky to have had 3 of my ​grandchildren here -- a ton of fun but I am exhausted!!

I have heard a lot this family vacation about various ​memberships and work out programs, paid apps etc. It ​seems like everyone is searching for healthier ways to live, ​I thought I would come up with a list of free therapies I try ​to incorporate in my daily life and share them with you. I ​have to say some of these are a lot easier to do while on ​vacation, but with some discipline and focus they can ​easily be a part of every day life.

1. The power of sleep in improving mental and physical ​health

Quality sleep is a critical component of overall well-being. ​Sleep is when your body heals. It plays a vital role in ​cognitive function, mood regulation, and physical health. ​Research shows that a consistent and sufficient amount of ​sleep can boost immunity, improve memory, and enhance ​physical performance. By making sleep a priority and ​establishing healthy sleep habits, you can optimize your ​mental and physical health.

2. The benefits of consuming whole foods for optimal ​wellness

Consuming whole foods is paramount for optimizing ​overall wellness. Whole foods are packed with essential ​nutrients that fuel your body and support various bodily ​functions. Ditch the SAD!! (Standard American Diet).

From fruits and vegetables to whole grains and lean ​proteins, a diet rich in whole foods can improve digestion, ​boost immunity, and enhance energy levels. These ​nutrient-dense options provide a solid foundation for a ​healthy lifestyle and can help reduce the risk of chronic ​diseases.. Embracing whole foods is a free therapy that ​nourishes your body from the inside out.

3. The impact of laughter on reducing stress and ​improving mood

Laughter is a powerful tool in reducing stress and ​enhancing mood. It has been scientifically proven to ​release endorphins, the body’s natural feel-good ​chemicals, which can promote relaxation and alleviate ​tension. Incorporating humor into your daily life can help ​lower cortisol levels, the stress hormone, leading to a more ​balanced emotional state. Whether through watching ​funny movies, sharing jokes with friends, or attending ​comedy shows, finding moments of joy and laughter can ​have a profound impact on your overall well-being..

4. Harnessing the power of sunshine for vitamin D ​production and mood enhancement

Sunshine is not just meant for brightening our days; it also ​plays a crucial role in our overall health and well-being. ​Exposure to sunlight stimulates the production of vitamin ​D in our bodies, which is vital for maintaining strong ​bones, boosting immunity, and even improving our mood. ​Research has shown that sunlight can help regulate our ​sleep-wake cycle and increase the production of serotonin, ​a neurotransmitter that contributes to feelings of ​happiness and well-being. So, make sure to spend some

time outdoors soaking up the sun’s rays to reap these ​incredible benefits for both your physical and mental ​health.

5. The role of exercise in boosting energy levels and ​promoting better health

As we continue exploring the power of free therapies, let ​us shine a light on the importance of exercise. Regular ​physical activity not only enhances our energy levels but ​also plays a significant role in promoting overall health ​and well-being. From improving cardiovascular health and ​strengthening muscles to enhancing mental clarity and ​reducing stress, the benefits of exercise are vast. ​Incorporating even a short daily workout routine can ​make a substantial difference in how you feel both ​physically and mentally.

6. Incorporating these therapies into your daily routine ​for maximum benefits

To truly maximize the benefits of sleep, whole foods, ​laughter, sunshine, and exercise, its essential to integrate ​them seamlessly into your daily routine. Start by creating a ​structured schedule that allows ample time for each of ​these activities. Prioritize quality sleep by establishing a ​consistent bedtime and wake-up routine. Plan your meals ​around whole, nutrient-dense foods to fuel your body ​effectively. Seek opportunities for laughter and sunshine ​during the day, whether through spending time with loved ​ones or taking a walk outdoors. Finally, make exercise a ​non-negotiable part of your day, whether it’s a morning ​yoga session or an evening jog. By consciously ​incorporating these ideas into your routine, you

can harness their full potential for enhancing your overall ​well-being.

The photos on these pages show ways I have tried to ​incorporate some of my own advice these past couple of

weeks!

Love,

Astrid