What can you do during your chemotherapy appointment to pass the time and lower your anxiety?
If you’ve been an active person, it can be very difficult to sit still for several hours.
Some people like mystery series, while others like humorous short stories.
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It doesn’t matter as long as it’s something you enjoy.
Plus,reading has mental and physical health benefits.
Simply feel grateful for their effort and bring up the spine of something you would rather read.
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Most people don’t expect you to wade through books they send.
You won’t be tested on your ability to regurgitate the contents.
Rather, most books are given as a way of sending a message that someone cares.
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In that way, they are priceless, even if you never crack the cover.
Keep a Journal
Writing and journaling can be very therapeutic.
We are learning that there are many benefits from journaling your cancer journey.
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If people are wondering what they can get for you, you may want to suggest a journal.
Some people keep more than one journal during treatment.
Some cancer survivors have found that keeping a gratitude journal is healing.
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If you’re still at a loss about writing topics, consider doing some free thought writing.
Begin by writing three pages writing about anything that comes to your mind.
Some people choose to work on cross-stitch projects, sew children’s clothes or work on quilting squares.
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One woman spent her infusion time putting together memory albums to give each of her children at Christmas.
Take a moment to brainstorm ideas that might appeal to you.
Load your laptop, pack your iPod, or slip some CDs into your portable CD player.
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Choose music that soothes, encourages, or distracts you.
Use some music to supportmeditationor to help with guided imagery.
The right music may transport you to a comfortable mental and emotional space in which you could relax.
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And, that’s not all.
We are learning there arebenefits to music therapy for cancer patientsbeyond simply feeling good.
Watch a Movie
Movies can inspire and entertain youand they can certainly help you pass the time.
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Check your local library for their selection of movies, or contact your friends about their video collections.
One way to fight back negative and limiting thoughts is to make plans for the future.
Think about what is on your bucket list.
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One way of planning for your futureand lowering your stress level in the processis to make a vision board.
Along with your bucket list, some people make a second (get rid of) list.
Are there activities you don’t really enjoy?
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Do you have any toxic friendships?
And if you are a very image-oriented person, try healing visualization.
Play a Game
Bring along some games or puzzles to occupy yourself during an infusion.
If you have an electronic equipment, you’re able to load your own games on it.
If you have enough table space, spread out a jigsaw puzzle and work it over.
Even your nurses or your chemo buddy may help you out!
When your session is over, tuck your games away in your chemo bag and roll on home.
Organize your photo files or clean up your email inbox.
If you get really absorbed in your tasks, the time may pass very quickly.
Use social media to get virtual support from other survivors.
Bring along asmall pillow, blanket, and eye mask (if light bothers you.)
Plan on how to pass your time in the chemo room, and enjoy it if you could.
Mugerwa S, Holden JD.Writing therapy: a new tool for general practice?.Br J Gen Pract.
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Pauwels EK, Volterrani D, Mariani G, Kostkiewics M.Mozart, music and medicine.Med Princ Pract.
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US National Library of Medicine.
