Hello Teal Sisters,
I missed our Thursday check-in again, as that day is often busy for me. (I had a massage and a visit with a friend, which were both enriching). I am 8 days out from a "mop up" chemo cycle to address the likelihood of lurking cancer cells after major surgery in April. There will be another in early July and if all goes well, a break from treatment for a while. Of course a maintenance plan will get underway at some point and I will know more about that towards the end of the summer.
I know we often talk about our physical ups and downs here and that has been very helpful for me. I am also trying to adjust my mindset from fearful, anticipatory thoughts of recurrence to finding moments of peace and appreciation. To that end, I participate in the Wellspring Friday webinar called "Living Well with Cancer", do some art therapy here and there, and read stories that inspire strength and hope. I read "Between Two Kingdoms" by Suleika Jaouad (who has gone through several bouts of leukemia) and I am now reading her book entitled, "The Book of Alchemy" which is about the power of creativity in journaling. I continue to look for avenues to release my thoughts and feelings in helpful ways, rather than feeling bogged down (and at times) depressed by them.
So my question for you is are there any activities, readings, interactions, or processes that tend compassionately to your heart and mind? Do you have any techniques or practices that create time away from worries and dwelling in the "what ifs?"
Sending you all warmest wishes,
Leslie