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Exercise to prepare for surgery

I would like to start a thread, if anyone is interested, to record our efforts to exercise in order to prepare for surgery. I was inspired by a report online of a young woman who exercised a lot to prepare for her surgery.

"I wasn’t thinking about the surgery or worrying about the surgery—I was focused on getting my body as healthy and as strong as possible," she says. "It gave me peace of mind. I was taking action and doing everything I could possibly do to be as strong and healthy as possible."

Comments

  • salamandra
    salamandra Posts: 778

    Hi Jotusconnie,

    Wishing you luck with your plan! I find it hard to plan/carry out exercise, but I feel better when I do something, both mentally and physically!

  • lotusconnie1999
    lotusconnie1999 Posts: 39
    edited May 2023

    Salamandra, you are totally right. I cannot carry out plans for exercise either. I will do it whenever I can. I walk sometimes. Thanks for your support.

  • salamandra
    salamandra Posts: 778

    Walking counts! It's my main form of exercise. I want to do more weight bearing stuff because my understanding is that it's super healthy especially for women as we get older, but walking built into my day is the simplest for me to actually do.

  • lotusconnie1999
    lotusconnie1999 Posts: 39
    edited May 2023

    salamanda, walking is one of the best exercises! Thank you for your support.

  • lotusconnie1999
    lotusconnie1999 Posts: 39
    edited May 2023

    I decide to do more instead of talking (a little too much at times). I will continue to exercise. Thanks to salamandra and everyone! I really appreciate it.

  • I have also decided to focus on my overall health heading into surgery (stage 1 grade 1 lumpectomy and reduction on 6/27). I’m doing Pilates 4-5 times a week, red light therapy 2-3 times a week, infrared sauna 2-3 times a week and a weekly massage. I already eat quite healthy and skipping alcohol isn’t a big deal for me.
    Other than self care, I’m a disaster rotting on the couch or sleeping my life away.
    Any suggestions on how to improve energy? I’m just gassed all the time.

  • moderators
    moderators Posts: 9,252
    edited June 7

    Be kind to yourselves 😍.

    • In addition to exercise, take it easy. Set aside time in your day to rest and naps!
    • And don't hesitate to ask for help when needed.
    • Here are some links that could be helpful:

    https://www.breastcancer.org/treatment/complementary-therapy

    https://www.breastcancer.org/treatment-side-effects/fatigue

    How a Home Wellness Mini-Makeover Can Help You Get Through Treatment and Recovery

    https://www.breastcancer.org/managing-life/diet-nutrition/healthy-eating-during-treatment/eating-with-side-effects/fatigue


    We're all here for you!

  • maggie15
    maggie15 Posts: 1,839

    Hi @placechristina, The Mods’ suggestion of complementary therapy is a good one. Acupuncture was very helpful for my strange combination of fatigue/insomnia and post treatment nerve pain. My cancer center provided it free during active treatment if referred by a doctor. I had to pay for it myself afterwards but it was worth it. I hope your surgery goes well. All the best.