Finding a Little Calm: Mindfulness During Cancer Treatment

Cancer treatment can be a difficult and uncertain time. There may be days when worry feels overwhelming, when pain is tiring, or when your thoughts seem to run ahead to the next appointment, scan or treatment.

Mindfulness cannot take these worries away, but it may offer a little breathing space. It is simply about gently bringing your attention back to the moment you are in, rather than becoming caught up in thoughts about how yesterday’s chemotherapy went or the consultant’s appointment tomorrow.

Breathing

You might begin with a few slow, comfortable breaths. Notice the air coming in and going out. Listen to the sounds around you. Feel your feet resting on the floor, or the warmth of a cup of tea between your hands. There is no need to clear your mind. Simply noticing what is around you can be enough.

Distraction

A gentle distraction can help. Try putting on some favourite music, listening to the radio, reading a few pages of a much-loved book or watching something familiar and comforting. Knitting, drawing, puzzles, gardening or keeping a simple journal can give your mind somewhere peaceful to settle.

Getting outdoors

If you feel able, spending a little time outdoors can also be soothing. Here in Cornwall, we have an amazing resource for mindfulness with the coastpath, beaches and incredible views. Even a quiet moment in the garden, a gentle walk along a country lane or sitting beneath a familiar tree can provide a welcome change of pace. 

Notice the birdsong, the breeze, the light on the leaves or the familiar sounds of the countryside. On days when going outside is too much, opening a window can still bring a little connection with the world beyond treatment.

Be kind to yourself

Above all, be gentle with yourself. Some days you may feel able to try these things, and other days you may simply need to rest. There is no right way to cope, and no need to force yourself to feel positive.

Sometimes, finding a little calm is enough. One breath, one cup of tea, one quiet moment at a time.

The Cove

Check out the resources offered and signposted by The Cove at the Royal Cornwall Hospital in Truro. The team organises relaxation classes, gentle massage, reiki, and much much more.