Body Image After Cancer - Females
Gentle Mirror Work
- Stand in front of mirror in a calm & private space
- Examine areas that are easier to see such as hands, face and shoulders
- Expand your observations to areas affected by treatment and notice scars, shape, skin—observe the emotions you feel
Touch & Sensory Awareness
- After a shower apply lotion to your body—arms, chest, stomach, etc
- Notice the texture warmth & sensation
- Acknowledge your body and thank it for being so resilient
Movement to reconnect
- Walking, stretching, yoga or tai chi can make you feel more in tune with your body
- Focus on how movement feels & less on burning calories
- Seek help from a physical therapist if your movement is restricted or painful
Self-Compassion in your Self-Talk
- Be aware of your negative self-talk (I am so fat or I am so disfigured)
- Replace these negative messages with positive ones—I am strong and resilient
- Keep a journal and try to understand when and why this negative self-talk occurs
How can I reconnect with my body?