Photo by Tiny Tribes Pink Ribbon is promoting a healthy lifestyle for a long time and now after the outbreak of coronavirus the importance of self-care has increased. Our lifestyle choices impact our health today and in our later life too. Bad choices and unhealthy lifestyle lead us to bad health conditions, medication and surgeries, etc. but the right choices and practicing self-care can avoid ill health. Self-care means looking after your physical, mental, emotional and spiritual well-being. In other words, doing things that are important to the mind, body and soul. Self-care is vital for the long-term good health but we have so many excuses for not caring ourselves such as we are too busy and tired. Remember if you can’t find some time today for yourself then illness will steal far more of your time tomorrow. Taking care of your self is the easiest, cheapest and best way to safeguard your physical, psychological, emotional, social and spiritual health. It will not happen unless you intentionally make time and effort for it. But the results will be worth the effort. We know that for those who are diagnosed with breast cancer anxiety is one of the worst parts. The COVID-19 crisis has now added yet another layer to this anxiety. We have some recommendations for those who are diagnosed with breast cancer and all others, that are essential for maintaining a healthy lifestyle in this difficult time.

  1. Social Distancing

Maintain social distancing and avoid meeting people until necessary. Take precautionary measurements and wear mask when meeting people. Those who are diagnosed with breast cancer or any other cancer take special care and strictly maintain social distancing because coronavirus is more lethal for cancer patients.

  1. Take healthy diet

Use diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains, paired with healthy sources of protein and fats. An organic and plant-based diet with protein from fish, skinless poultry, nuts, legumes, and small amounts of lean meats is the best diet to ensure you eat healthily. Eat more plant-based foods, fewer animal-based foods, drink plenty of water and eat only as much food as your body needs. We should also limit the bad fats, sugar, processed meat, dairy, overcooked food and Refined Carbs.

  1. Physical activities

Exercise and physical activity decrease the risk of different diseases including breast cancer by changing the estrogen, insulin and insulin-like growth factor.

  1. Practice good hygiene

“Cleanliness is half of faith.” Practicing good daily hygiene not only protects you from traditional diseases but coronavirus too. Wash your hands frequently with soap, Brush your teeth, take shower, and cut your nails.

  1. Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol

Smoking and drinking are bad for your health so quit both of them. Researches show that you can lower your risk of heart disease up to 50% if you quit smoking completely and if you give up drinking, the risk of developing cancer reduces quickly.

  1. Sleep for 8 hours

Getting proper sleep and rest is necessary for good health. Minimum 8 hours of sleep is essential for both your mind and body to rest, relax and fully recover.

  1. Combat negative self-talk and relieve the effect of stress

A majority of you probably have a mind that whirls with negative thoughts. Your thoughts can eat you alive and you will not enjoy a happy and healthy life. Depression, anxiety and stress make you ill. Detox your mind by cleaning your emotional/mental clutter and stop negative thinking.

  1. Taking time for yourself

Find some time for yourself and do what you enjoy or like to do at this time. You can do something creative, play with children, talk with family and friends.

  1. Practice spiritual self-care

Spend time in prayers or meditation or go for a long walk to contemplate purpose and meaning. Positive beliefs, comfort and strength gained from religion, meditation and prayer can contribute to well-being. Spirituality is the way you find meaning, hope, comfort and inner peace in your life. You can find spirituality through religion, art or just making a connection with nature.