Managing Cancer-Related Fatigue in the New Year

It's just a few days after the New Year, and advertisements for diet plans are everywhere. Flip open a magazine and photos of men and women on exercise equipment will assault you. Turn on the television, and offers for subscriptions to popular diets will bombard your senses. At every turn, we receive the subliminal message: it's time for a new start; it's time for a new you.

Many people find the start of a new year to be an exciting time of renewal. Working to bring about desired changes, resolutions are made. There are big plans, lofty goals and good intentions. But often, the goals are difficult to reach and sometimes, end up abandoned later in the year.

For the person with dealing with post-cancer fatigue or other cancer-related side effects, the hopes and dreams of a glorious new year can be daunting, especially those demanding physical exertion. But with a little help, it's possible to combat those feelings of exhaustion and find ways to be more physically active.

First, it's important to understand the causes behind post cancer-related fatigue (CRF). CRF is a real malady and can be caused by cancer-related medical treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation or anti-hormone therapy. Not all cancer survivors suffer from CRF, but many will experience it to some degree at some point in their cancer journey. For some, CRF can be debilitating while others may only experience it as a minor nuisance. In either case, increasing physical activity and adjusting the mental attitude can help a person overcome the weightiness of post cancer related fatigue.

One of the best ways to tackle the fatigue is to get moving, but for the person with cancer, some ground rules need to be established.

First and foremost, it would be wise to check with a doctor before beginning any new activities, but light, healthy activity will usually be beneficial for overall well-being. After a doctor's approval has been obtained, start slow and aim low. By learning to pace activities and listen to your body, you'll begin to understand what you can handle and when it's time to rest.

There may be certain times of the day you have more energy. Those times are the best times to try a little physical exertion. If you've been very inactive, your first attempts at physical activity might begin with just moving from a sitting to a standing position. Or perhaps, just taking a few steps around the house. Take it slow and easy. If you find yourself getting winded or experiencing any difficulty stop. Pay attention to your body. It will give signals to help guide you.

Build up gradually and do something you enjoy doing. It's not necessary to start an aerobic class or anything strenuous. The main goal is to move. You may enjoy walking a dog or dancing around your living room. Do what you can and remember to start small for a few minutes a day.

Gradually build up your movements from a few minutes a day to about thirty minutes a day. Aim to do this for one or two days a week until you feel able to increase the frequency.

If possible, find a friend to join you. Working with someone else is fun! Adding a little music might help, too.

Exercise increases endorphins in the brain helping you not only feel better and have a more positive outlook, but can also increase appetite.

Remember to be gentle and kind to yourself. Don't try to live up to the expectations of others. This is something you're doing for your own benefit.

The new year is always a good time for re-assessing and re-evaluating. And while breast cancer may have certainly altered your appearance, affected your physical stamina or impacted your emotional well-being, it doesn't have to keep you from enjoying the opportunity to embrace change.

This year, let little changes be the start of taking back control of your life. All it takes is a little determination and a step in the right direction.