October is Breast Cancer Awareness month, and I had two big things happen this week: my first extensive cancer surveillance check-up, and I recorded a vulnerable podcast about trauma’s impact on our body (listen to the episode here)
As you can see in the photos below, I started confident and ready to take on the first test in my cancer surveillance appointment. And then my emotions hit me- the worrying, the “what if’s,” the fear, “what if I now have cancer in the other breast?”
Instead of forcing myself to go on with a smile, I let myself feel these emotions. My post-cancer journey has been go-go-go… What can I say? I am full of life!
But this wave of emotions allowed me to reflect for a moment. The new post-cancer me accepts ME: the feelings, the crying, and the anger.
The post-cancer me doesn’t apologize for her emotions; she FEELS them. And the post-cancer me accepts these new seasons of life with open arms.
It was incredible timing for this realization and the podcast I recorded with Dr. Keesha. First, we discussed if unresolved trauma can lead to cancer– we know its impact on our mental health, but what about our physical health?
I have never considered this at all. Sure, I have had my fair share of trauma, but this conversation made me question if I have forgiven + released that pain.
If you need a reminder, here it is: you deserve to heal and feel relief. So tune into your mind + body, + soul; it’s time to fill your cup!
Here’s how I fill my cup:
- I start my morning with Jesus and coffee. I admit coffee is first 😉 I usually read the verse of the day on the YouVersion app.
- Then I head outside and look toward the morning sun, this helps me wake up, and it will help me sleep later that night.
- I then stretch for a few minutes and do some deep breathing.
I am so grateful you are reading this, and if you want to see more content from me head on over to Instagram and connect with me!
Learn about getting good sleep and why it is essential
This week we are taking fear head on! With any diagnosis, fear can become paralyzing.
We have many choices in life, including how to react to life’s curveballs.
