🌱 Wednesday Wellness: Letting go of guilt around cancer💗

Everyone affected by breast cancer has at some point felt that little niggle of guilt,  quietly finding its place in our thoughts and hearts.

It doesn't always arrive loudly. Sometimes it shows up as that little voice telling us we should be doing more, coping better, helping others, or keeping all the plates spinning.

For many of us, guilt can become such a familiar feeling that we hardly notice it's there.

💭 Guilt for needing to rest.

💭 Guilt for cancelling plans.

💭 Guilt for asking for help.

💭 Guilt for not having the same energy you once did.

💭 Guilt for not being able to show up for others in the way you'd like.

💭 Guilt for putting your own needs first.

And sometimes, guilt isn't about what we're doing at all. Sometimes it's about how we're feeling.

😔 Feeling frightened about the future.

😢 Feeling overwhelmed by it all.

😞 Feeling sad, frustrated or exhausted.

🌧️ Having days where positivity feels out of reach.

The truth is that breast cancer asks so much of us. It affects the body, emotions, relationships, routines and sense of self. Whether you're newly diagnosed, undergoing treatment, recovering, living with metastatic breast cancer, or adjusting to life after treatment, you're carrying more than most people can see.

Yet despite everything, many of us still expect ourselves to keep going as though nothing has changed.

This Wednesday, we'd like to gently remind you that it's okay to be kind to yourself. 🌸

💗 Rest is not something you have to earn.

💗 Asking for help does not make you a burden.

💗 Looking after your own wellbeing is not selfish.

💗 Saying "no" is sometimes an act of self-care.

💗 Doing what you can is enough.

Imagine speaking to yourself the way you would speak to a dear friend who was going through breast cancer. You'd probably offer understanding, patience and compassion. You'd remind them that they're doing their best. You'd tell them it's okay to have difficult days.

You deserve that same kindness too. 🤗

So perhaps this week, there's something you can give yourself permission to let go of.

✨ The guilt around needing a nap.

✨ The guilt around accepting help.

✨ The guilt around leaving the housework until tomorrow.

✨ The guilt around putting yourself first.

✨ The guilt around simply having a hard day.

Be gentle with yourself. You're carrying a lot, and you're doing better than you think. 💕

🌿 We'd love to hear from you:

What's something you've stopped feeling guilty about since your diagnosis, treatment or recovery?

Your words might be the permission someone else needs to show themselves a little more kindness today. 💗🌸