Living well during cancer treatment
Cancer treatment can be grueling, both physically and emotionally.
Between driving to and from appointments, scheduling tests and awaiting results, it can feel nearly impossible to keep up with the things you want to do and the things you must do, says UCI Health integrative oncologist Dr. Gary E. Deng.
Deng, an internationally recognized pioneer in integrative medicine, is director of Integrative Oncology for the UCI Health Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center and the Susan Samueli Integrative Health Institute, part of UCI Health.
With more than two decades of experience helping people improve their mental, physical and spiritual well-being in their fight against cancer, Deng shares tips on how to preserve your energy and independence during this often hectic and draining time.
Decide what’s important
“Focus on the big things and let the little things go,” he advises.
If your to-do list is overloaded, take a critical look and determine what things absolutely must get done. Postpone or let go of the rest.
“Try not to be a perfectionist and take care of everything. Just do what is important and urgent. Get comfortable with letting things go, including any expectations you can’t meet.”
Learn to say 'No'
It’s important to be selective about commitments and invitations, especially during cancer treatment.
One simply cannot say 'yes' to everything, Deng says. “I would be exhausted and have to say ‘no’ to many important things.”
He suggests taking a sandwich approach to declining invitations by putting the 'no' between positive sentiments. Here are a few examples:
- 'Thank you for inviting me. I don’t have the energy now, but it means a lot to be included.'
- 'It's nice of you to think I can be of help. I am going through treatment these days and don’t feel that I can commit. I hope someone else will be more helpful.'
Make time for hobbies
It can be challenging to find the time and energy to take part in hobbies and pleasurable activities, but finding moments of levity and enjoyment are essential for well-being.
“Joy is what gives life meaning,” Deng notes.
He recommends low-energy, high-reward activities such as listening to music, reading or strolling through natural settings.
Manage sleep and stress
People who are going through cancer treatment may get enough hours of sleep, but often that sleep is not deep or restful. Mindfulness can help restore that balance, he says.
“By learning and practicing mindfulness-based stress-reduction techniques, you can clear your mind of noise and make your sleep deeper and more refreshing.”