Going through chemotherapy treatment can be a very stressful and overwhelming experience. Keeping your mind occupied and passing the time with relaxing activities can be a really good way to keep calm!
Arts And Crafts
A great form of relaxation during chemo is various types of arts and crafts - find what works for you!
Some people find drawing to be a relaxing distraction, and a good way to get your feelings down on paper in a fun and creative way. Others take enjoyment in painting - whether this be realistic or abstract. Experiment with acrylic paints or watercolours; see what takes your fancy! If you're not hugely enthusiastic on the creating aspect of arts and crafts, we recommend finding yourself an adult colouring book. Colouring books have been found to be a great way to unwind and quiet the mind. Focus on one segment at a time as you colour - even colouring for five minutes a day can be beneficial for you.
Every Thursday, we host an art/craft club in our office! We provide all the materials and plenty of tea and coffee! If you'd like to unwind and socialise with other diamonds who understand exactly what you're going through, register as a diamond and pop down to let your creative juices flow!
Our art/craft club hosts a varied range of different activities - from painting, to pastels, to knitting and crochet! We aim to find activities for everyone, and we're always open to hear new suggestions.
Read A Book
Reading is a great way to reduce stress! Not only does it allow for relaxation during a stressful experience, it also strengthens your brain and allows you to escape reality and enter a new world! It might help to bring a book to your next appointment. Whether you prefer fiction books for fun, or nonfiction books to learn new skills, there's a right book for everyone.
If you're interested in reading advice during your cancer journey, Sam's book 'Shining Bright Through The Fight' is on Amazon. Her book is full of useful information and advice aimed at both patients and their loved ones.
Gardening
If you're looking to get outside and absorb some sunshine, gardening might be the right thing for you! Plus, this can be a great way to get family and friends involved, allowing you to socialise and stay connected to your loved ones. Gardening can be a very mindful experience that fills you with a sense of pride as you watch your creation start to come together. Just make sure to check with your doctor to ensure gardening isn't too intensive for you during your stage in treatment.
Puzzles
If a distraction is what you need, a puzzle may be a great thing for you to try. Whether this is in the form of a crossword, a puzzle toy or a jigsaw, this distraction can also keep your mind warmed up and help with brain health! A puzzle is a simple and effective activity that you can carry around with you anywhere!
Do you have any other effective relaxation techniques? Comment down below!
Cited Sources:
"Activities To Keep You Motivated During Cancer Treatment", Comprehensive Cancer Centers,
https://cccnevada.com/activities-keep-motivated-cancer-treatment/ [Accessed 24 October 2024]
Comments