Defying Limits: The Surprising Power of Exercise During Treatment
While research underscores the benefits of exercise in enhancing physical function and mitigating side effects during cancer treatment, my personal journey brings these findings to life. Exercise became my refuge, offering both a rush of adrenaline and a peaceful sanctuary, maintaining a sense of normalcy amidst the turmoil of treatment. Sharing this story is driven by my hope to inspire others facing similar battles, demonstrating that embracing physical activity can be a powerful tool for healing, resilience, and rediscovering joy in life's most challenging times.
A Journey Through Treatment:
Prioritizing exercise during my cancer treatment was a deliberate choice, driven by a deep belief in my own resilience. It was an endeavor that went beyond preserving physical health; it was an act of empowering myself, setting small, achievable goals, and continually pushing my limits. As I moved into remission, the value of exercise in my life didn't diminish; instead, its significance evolved. The routines that buoyed me through treatment became celebrations of survival and symbols of my ongoing recovery, transforming into rituals that underscored the continuity of life.
The Power of Belief and Resilience:
For anyone starting this journey, remember: your strength knows no bounds. A pivotal book that has deeply influenced my perspective on this concept is "Can't Hurt Me" by David Goggins. His discussion of the 40% rule resonates profoundly, serving as a constant reminder to challenge my perceived limits. Goggins articulates, “When you think you’re done, you’re actually only 40% into what your body's capable of achieving." That’s just the limit we place on ourselves. In reality, we have 60% more to offer!” This mindset encourages us to surpass our self-imposed limitations, affirming that we possess the capacity for growth and resilience in every stage of our journey, whether facing the intense challenges of treatment or experiencing moments of calm in remission.
This philosophy vividly came to life on a day that remains a highlight of my journey, a testament to surpassing my own limits that fills me with immense pride. On the day of my seventh chemotherapy infusion, I encountered an unexpected opportunity for a workout. With a two-hour window between my pre-chemotherapy procedures (lab work and scans) and the infusion itself, and a pilates studio conveniently located across from the hospital, I decided to make the most of my time. Seizing the chance for a 40-minute workout, this moment marked a significant triumph in weaving exercise into the fabric of my treatment regimen. It stood as a powerful testament to my unwavering dedication to maintaining my health and vitality.
Integrating Exercise into Your Cancer Journey: My Top 5 Tips
Drawing from these impactful experiences, I offer five tips to help others meld exercise into their cancer treatment and beyond:
1. Fatigue Management: Embrace light, manageable activities to boost both body and spirit on challenging days.
2. Building an Exercise Routine: View your workout sessions as indispensable, marking them as essential appointments in your recovery journey.
3. Community Support: The journey through cancer can feel lonely, but connecting with others in exercise groups or classes can offer much-needed motivation and a sense of belonging.
4. Staying Positive: Celebrate each achievement, no matter how small, as a testament to your progress and the positive impact of staying active.
5. Balance Activity with Rest: Attune to your body's needs, striking a balance between exercise and rest to foster holistic recovery.
Tip #3: Community Support
Never underestimate the power of shared experiences. Joining groups or classes for cancer survivors can motivate you and make exercising more enjoyable.
Moving Forward: Harnessing Strength Beyond Survival
Exercise stands as a beacon of healing and empowerment in the cancer journey, reminding us that recovery and remission are about thriving, not just surviving. The "Mission Remission Podcast" shares narratives of resilience and recovery, aiming to inspire listeners to integrate physical activity into their stories, discovering untapped strengths. Our mission is to illuminate the path toward recovery with strength, resilience, and hope, supporting our community to grow stronger together.
Disclaimer: Please note that the content provided in this blog post, including text, graphics, images, and other material, is for informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We are not medical professionals, and this post should not be construed as providing medical advice. This blog post is an account of personal experiences with cancer and genetic testing. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or health concerns. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this blog.
