Written by Mia Barnes
Breast cancer awareness month is an excellent time for reflection and growth. Entering remission starts a new chapter of your life, but you might not feel like yourself. Rebuild your body and spirit connection by introducing movement to your lifestyle this October. When you’re ready to get on your feet, you can gradually grow your confidence through a personalised, exercise routine.
1. Start With Gentle Exercises
Surgery and chemotherapy change the body. You might not have the muscle mass you did before your treatment began. Adjust your perspective on working out by starting with a gentle movement programme.
Start by sitting in a chair. You might enjoy twisting your upper body to develop your upper back muscles and improve your flexibility. The key is to do what you can, when you can. Consistency is essential, but you should do small movements to avoid pushing yourself too hard.
2. Do Something You Love
People don’t stick with routines they hate. Choose sustainable exercises you enjoy, like walking around your neighbourhood or dancing slowly to your favourite song. You’re more likely to maintain your workout schedule if you look forward to it. Long-term progress is crucial for building your confidence and your strength after treatment.
3. Increase the Intensity Gradually
Remission looks different for everyone. Someone else might be able to lift weights after getting out of hospital, while others feel winded after walking through their homes. Begin with the right intensity for your body and increase it slowly. Try working out once a week at first.
When you’re ready, try using bands and light weights to incorporate lymphatic drainage movements into your routine. Amp Wellbeing’s weighted Pilates balls merge aesthetically pleasing designs with helpful exercise equipment. Bands and light weights are also good tools for building muscle when you have more stamina.
Don’t forget that any exercise clothing changes are chances to check for growths where your cancer used to be. Self-examinations catch early breast cancer developments 40% of the time, so use your outfit swaps as opportunities to do a check. You may have more peace of mind doing self-exams between follow-up scans.
4. Move With Friends
Treatments often make people feel isolated. If you’ve recently spent too much time alone, ask your loved ones to join your new exercise routine. They might love chatting while you dance in the living room or do yoga in your backyard. You’ll boost your spirit while becoming more confident in your body again.
5. Prepare Backup Options
Experts recommend that adults get 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise every week. That may not be possible right after your treatment ends, so have a backup plan ready when your body feels too tired for your current workout routine. If you have gentler movement ideas ready — like moving your arms through pool water — you’ll feel confident in your ability to listen to your body’s needs without judgment.
6. Drink Extra Water
Your body’s been through a journey recently. Even gentle movements will challenge it to handle a more intense routine. Drink plenty of water during your selected exercises. You’ll give your body what it needs to get stronger and avoid dehydration setbacks.
Regain Your Confidence Through Exercise
Connecting your mind and body with self-confidence is challenging after cancer treatments. Movement may help. Once you create a functional, manageable routine that works with your lifestyle, you’ll make a good routine for your overall well-being.