Can Dry Brushing Spread Cancer Throughout Your Body?

Dry brushing, a popular wellness practice, has gained immense popularity in recent years for its potential health benefits. Advocates claim that it can exfoliate the skin, improve circulation, and even aid in detoxification. However, there have been concerns raised about whether dry brushing could potentially spread cancer throughout the body. In this article, we will explore the science behind dry brushing, its potential benefits, and whether it has any link to cancer spreading.

Dry Brushing and the Lymphatic System

One of the primary claims associated with dry brushing is its ability to support the lymphatic system, which plays a vital role in the body's immune system and detoxification. The lymphatic system is a network of vessels and nodes responsible for carrying lymph, a colorless fluid that contains white blood cells and waste products, away from tissues and back to the bloodstream.

Proponents of dry brushing argue that the gentle strokes and increased blood circulation can stimulate the lymphatic system, helping it remove toxins and waste more efficiently. 

While this idea is appealing, little research and scientific evidence to directly link dry brushing to significant detoxification is limited.

The Body's Natural Detoxification Processes

It's essential to understand that the human body possesses sophisticated mechanisms for detoxification that primarily involve the liver, kidneys, and digestive system. These organs work together to break down and eliminate waste products, toxins, and metabolic byproducts from the body.

While dry brushing may support the lymphatic system, it's not a replacement for the body's inherent detoxification processes. 

In reality, the liver is the primary organ responsible for processing and eliminating toxins, not the skin. The skin's main role is to serve as a protective barrier and regulate temperature, not as a major detoxification organ.

Remember that for significant detoxification, it's crucial to support the body's natural processes through a balanced diet, hydration, and a healthy lifestyle.

Understanding Cancer and Its Spread

Cancer is a complex group of diseases characterized by the uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells. When cancer cells break away from the primary tumor and travel through the bloodstream or lymph nodes to form new tumors in other parts of the body, it's known as metastasis. This process is how cancer spreads throughout the body.

Metastasis is a critical factor in the progression of cancer, and the spread of cancer cells is a significant concern in cancer treatment. However, it's important to note that cancer cells spreading through the body occur within the internal systems, such as the circulatory and lymphatic systems. The external practice of dry brushing affects the skin and is not directly linked to the spread of cancer cells internally.

Debunking the Myth

The idea that dry brushing can spread cancer throughout the body is a misconception. There is no scientific evidence to support such a claim. 

Cancer spreads through complex biological mechanisms, and external factors like dry brushing do not have a direct impact on these processes. It is essential to rely on scientific research and medical expertise when evaluating health practices.

Dry brushing, when done correctly and gently, poses minimal risk and is generally considered safe for most people. 

However, it's crucial to follow some guidelines to ensure a safe and effective dry brushing routine:

Best Technique for Safe and Effective Dry Brushing 

Step 1: Gather Your Tools

Before you start dry brushing, it's crucial to have the right tools on hand. Here's what you'll need:

1. Dry Body Brush: Choose a type of brush with natural bristles eg. natural fibre brush. Look for a brush with a long handle to help you reach your back easily. Avoid buying a synthetic or stiff-bristled brush, as they can be too harsh on your skin compared to a softer natural bristle brush.

2. Towel or Mat: To catch any loosened skin cells and avoid a mess, place a towel or a mat on the floor in the area where you plan to dry brush.

Step 2: Prepare Your Skin and Brush

Before you begin dry brushing, there are a few preliminary steps to follow:

1. Undress: Start by undressing completely or wearing minimal clothing. This allows you to access the skin you want to brush effectively.

2. Inspect Your Skin: Check your skin for any irritations, cuts, or open wounds. Avoid dry brushing over these areas as it can exacerbate the condition or cause discomfort.

3. Start Dry: Make sure both your skin and the brush are completely dry. Dry brushing is most effective on dry skin.

Step 3: Dry Brushing Technique

Now that you're ready to begin, it's time to practice the proper dry brushing technique. Follow these steps:

1. Start at the Feet: Begin with your feet and work your way up. Use long light strokes, sweeping motions, always brushing towards your heart. This direction helps support lymphatic drainage and blood circulation.

2. Legs: Brush your legs in upward strokes, covering each area several times. Pay special attention to the backs of your thighs and knees.

3. Abdomen and Chest: Move to your abdomen, using gentle circular motions in a clockwise direction. Brush the chest area with upward strokes, avoiding the sensitive breast tissue.

4. Arms: Brush your arms, starting with your hands and moving towards your shoulders. Again, focus on brushing towards the heart.

5. Back: If your brush has a long handle or you have a helper, you can also dry brush your back. Use upward strokes, and be gentle in this area.

6. Neck and Face: It's generally recommended to avoid dry brushing the neck and face, as these areas are more sensitive.

Step 4: Adjust Pressure and Frequency

As you dry brush, be mindful of the pressure you apply. The goal is not to scrub aggressively but to stimulate the skin gently. If you experience any discomfort or irritation, lighten your touch.

In terms of frequency, dry brushing can be done a few times a week. However, it's essential to listen to your body and adjust as needed. Some people may find that once or twice a week is sufficient, while others may prefer a daily routine.

Step 5: Aftercare

After you've completed your dry brushing session, take a few extra steps to care for your skin:

1. Shower: Follow up with a warm shower to rinse away the loosened skin cells and promote circulation.

2. Moisturize: Apply a natural moisturizer or body oil to keep your skin hydrated and nourished.

3. Clean Your Brush: Periodically, clean your dry brush with warm water and mild soap to remove any accumulated dead skin cells and maintain hygiene.

When You Shouldn't Dry Brush

Dry brushing is generally considered a safe practice for most individuals, but there are specific situations where cancer patients should exercise caution or avoid it altogether. It's essential for individuals with cancer to consult with their healthcare team before incorporating any new wellness practices into their routine. Here are some instances when someone with cancer should be cautious or refrain from dry brushing:

1. During Active Treatment: Individuals undergoing active cancer treatment, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy, may have compromised skin and heightened sensitivity. Dry brushing may irritate the skin further and lead to discomfort. It's advisable to avoid dry brushing during this phase and wait until treatment is complete or until your healthcare team gives the green light.

2. Skin Complications: If you have skin complications related to cancer or its treatment, such as radiation burns, surgical wounds, or skin infections, dry brushing should be avoided in the affected areas. The practice can exacerbate these sensitive skin conditions and delay the healing process.

3. Low Platelet Count: Some cancer treatments, like chemotherapy, can lead to a drop in the number of platelets in the blood. Platelets play a crucial role in clotting, and when their count is low, it increases the risk of bleeding and bruising. Dry brushing, which involves using a firm brush on the skin, may increase the likelihood of skin bruising, making it an unsuitable practice for individuals with low platelet counts.

4. Lymphedema: Lymphedema is a condition characterized by the accumulation of lymphatic fluid, leading to swelling in specific areas of the body. Cancer treatments, particularly surgery and lymph node removal, can increase the risk of developing lymphedema. In cases of lymphedema, it's important to consult with a lymphedema specialist or healthcare provider before considering dry brushing. If approved, any dry brushing should be done with extra caution and tailored to the individual's specific condition.

5. Pain or Discomfort: If you experience pain, discomfort, or skin sensitivity due to your cancer or its treatment, dry brushing may exacerbate these symptoms. In such cases, it's best to prioritize comfort and avoid dry brushing until you are in a better physical condition.

6. Individual Health Status: Cancer is a complex disease with various types and stages. The appropriateness of dry brushing can vary from person to person, depending on their overall health, cancer type, and treatment plan. Always consult with your healthcare team to determine whether dry brushing is safe for your specific situation.

7. Prescription Medications: Some cancer medications can affect the skin's integrity and make it more prone to dryness, sensitivity, or reactions. If you are taking any prescription medications, discuss your intention to dry brush with your healthcare provider to ensure it won't interfere with your treatment or skin health.

Benefits of Dry Brushing

While the concern about cancer spread through dry brushing is unfounded, there are potential benefits of this practice:

1. Skin Health: Dry brushing can help exfoliate the skin, removing dead cells and promoting a healthier complexion.

2. Improved Circulation: By stimulating blood flow, dry brushing may help reduce the appearance of cellulite and promote overall skin health.

3. Lymphatic Support: Advocates believe that dry brushing can aid in lymphatic drainage, potentially supporting the body's natural detoxification processes.

4. Relaxation: Many people find the act of dry brushing to be a soothing and meditative practice, promoting relaxation and self-care.

5. Enhanced Absorption: Some individuals use dry brushing as a way to help the skin better absorb skincare products.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the idea that dry brushing can spread cancer throughout the body is a myth not supported by scientific evidence. Cancer spreads through complex biological processes within the body, and external practices like dry brushing do not have a direct impact on cancer metastasis.

Dry brushing, when done correctly and gently, can offer potential benefits such as exfoliation, improved circulation, and support for the lymphatic system. However, it's important to approach dry brushing as a self-care practice rather than a medical treatment for serious conditions.

As with any wellness practice, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare provider before incorporating dry brushing into your routine, especially if you have any underlying health concerns or skin conditions. When used appropriately, dry brushing can be a safe and enjoyable addition to your self-care regimen.

The Best Japanese Green Tea for Cancer Patients to Drink (2023)

While there is no miracle cure for cancer, many individuals turn to complementary and alternative therapies to support their overall well-being during cancer treatment and recovery. One such option is incorporating green tea into their daily routine. In this article, we'll explore the world of Japanese green tea and how it can benefit cancer patients in 2023.

Green Tea and Cancer - What the Research Says

1. Antioxidant Properties:

• Green tea is rich in polyphenols, particularly epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), which have well-documented antioxidant properties. Antioxidants help neutralize harmful free radicals, preventing oxidative damage to cells and DNA.

• A study published in the "Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry" in 2005 (Yang et al.) demonstrated that EGCG effectively scavenged free radicals and reduced oxidative stress in cell culture models.

2. Cancer Cell Inhibition:

• Laboratory studies have shown that green tea polyphenols, particularly EGCG, can inhibit the growth of cancer cells and induce apoptosis (cell death) in various types of cancer.

• A study in the "Cancer Letters" journal in 2007 (Shanafelt et al.) explored the role of EGCG in inhibiting the proliferation of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) cells.

• Research published in "Cancer Prevention Research" in 2010 (Sartippour et al.) investigated the effects of green tea extract on breast cancer cells, finding that it inhibited cell growth.

3. Breast Cancer Stem Cells:

• Green tea has shown promise in targeting breast cancer stem cells, which are implicated in the initiation and progression of breast cancer.

• A study published in "Cancer Research" in 2009 (Kannappan et al.) found that EGCG disrupted the self-renewal process of breast cancer stem cells.

4. Prostate Cancer:

• Several epidemiological studies have suggested an association between green tea consumption and a reduced risk of prostate cancer.

• A study in the "American Journal of Epidemiology" in 2007 (Kurahashi et al.) reported that higher green tea intake was linked to a lower risk of advanced prostate cancer.

• Another study published in "Cancer Causes & Control" in 2009 (Jian et al.) found that green tea consumption was inversely associated with the risk of prostate cancer in Chinese men.

5. Clinical Trials:

• Clinical trials have investigated the potential benefits of green tea and its extracts in cancer treatment.

• The "Journal of Clinical Oncology" published a randomized phase II trial in 2013 (Choan et al.) that examined the effects of green tea extract on patients with androgen-independent prostate cancer.

• Clinical trials have also explored the use of green tea extract in combination with conventional cancer therapies, focusing on its potential to enhance treatment efficacy.

While these findings are promising, it's essential to note that more research is needed to establish definitive recommendations for the use of green tea in cancer prevention and treatment. Additionally, individual responses to green tea can vary, and it should not be considered a standalone treatment for cancer. It should be seen as a complementary component of a broader approach to cancer care that includes medical treatment, a balanced diet, exercise, and emotional support. Patients should always consult with their healthcare providers before making significant dietary changes or incorporating supplements into their treatment plans.

How many cups of green tea to drink in a day?

In the book "Anticancer: A New Way of Life" by Dr. David Servan-Schreiber, he does recommend green tea as part of a cancer-fighting diet. However, he doesn't specify an exact number of cups of green tea that cancer patients should drink. Instead, he emphasizes the potential benefits of green tea's antioxidants, particularly epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), and suggests incorporating it into one's diet as a healthy beverage choice.

If you're specifically interested in incorporating green tea into your diet for its potential health benefits, it's a good practice to consult with a healthcare provider. The recommended amount of green tea can vary depending on factors such as your overall health, tolerance to caffeine, and specific health conditions.

Other Health Benefits of Green Tea

• Amino acids: Green tea, particularly matcha tea, is abundant in L-theanine, an amino acid known to promote relaxation, reduce anxiety, and improve brain function. This can be particularly helpful for cancer patients dealing with the stress and anxiety that often accompany a cancer diagnosis.

• Vitamin C: Green tea contains vitamin C, which can support the immune system and overall health. A strong immune system is essential for cancer patients to help them better cope with treatment and reduce the risk of infection.

• Low caffeine: Green tea typically contains less caffeine than black tea or coffee, making it a suitable choice for individuals who are sensitive to caffeine or looking to reduce their caffeine intake.

• Cancer prevention: Some studies have suggested that green tea may help prevent the development of certain types of cancer, such as prostate and breast cancer. While more research is needed, the potential cancer-fighting properties of green tea are promising.

How to prepare Japanese Green Tea To Preserve its Anticancer Properties

To preserve these beneficial compounds when preparing Japanese green tea, it’s important you follow these steps:

1. Choose High-Quality Green Tea:

Start with a high-quality Japanese green tea, preferably one that is fresh and hasn't been stored for too long. Look for teas labeled as "sencha" or "matcha," which tend to have higher levels of antioxidants.

2. Use Fresh and Pure Water:

The quality of water you use can significantly impact the flavor and potential health benefits of your tea. Use fresh, cold, and filtered water to ensure it's free from impurities and has a neutral taste.

3. Measure the Tea Leaves or Powder:

Depending on the type of green tea you're using, measure the appropriate amount:

- For loose-leaf green tea (sencha or gyokuro): Use about 1 to 1.5 teaspoons of tea leaves per 8 ounces (240 ml) of water.

- For matcha: Use about 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of matcha powder per 8 ounces (240 ml) of water.

4. Water Temperature:

Heat the water to the appropriate temperature:

- For sencha: Use water at around 160-180°F (71-82°C). This is below boiling.

- For matcha: Use water at about 175°F (80°C). It should not be boiling.

5. Preheat the Teapot or Teacup:

Pour some hot water into the teapot or teacup to preheat it. Swirl the hot water around and then discard it.

6. Steeping Time:

For sencha:

- Steep the tea leaves for 1-2 minutes for the first infusion.

- For subsequent infusions, increase the steeping time slightly.

For matcha:

- Whisk the matcha powder into the hot water vigorously until it's well-dissolved and frothy.

7. Avoid Boiling:

Never boil green tea leaves or matcha powder, as this can destroy the delicate catechins and affect the flavor.

8. Use the Right Tea Utensils:

Use a kyusu (Japanese teapot) for sencha and a chawan (matcha bowl) and bamboo whisk for matcha to ensure the best flavor and preparation.

9. Storage:

Store your green tea in an airtight container in a cool, dark place away from moisture, light, and strong odors to preserve its freshness and antioxidant content.

10. Enjoy Promptly:

Japanese green tea is best enjoyed shortly after brewing to maximize its flavor and potential health benefits. Don't let it sit for too long before drinking.

By following these steps, you can prepare Japanese green tea in a way that helps preserve its anticancer properties while enjoying its delicious taste and aroma. Additionally, incorporating green tea into a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle may contribute to its potential health benefits.

Types of Japanese Green Tea

Okay so not only do we know drinking Japanese green tea not only helps us fight cancer, but we also know how to prepare it properly, it’s now time to get your hands on some. It would surprise you that Japanese green tea comes in various forms, each with its own unique flavor profile and health benefits. Now, if you’re new to drinking green tea, you can experiment a little and see which one is to your liking and taste.

Here are some of the most popular types of Japanese green tea:

1. Sencha Tea: Sencha is the most common and widely consumed type of green tea in Japan. It is made from whole green tea leaves and has a refreshing, grassy flavor. Sencha is rich in catechins, including EGCG, making it a great choice for cancer patients.

2. Matcha Tea: Matcha is a finely ground green tea powder that is traditionally whisked with hot water. It contains the entire leaf and is exceptionally high in antioxidants. Matcha is known for its vibrant green color and earthy, umami flavor. It's a great choice for those looking to maximize their green tea consumption.

3. Gyokuro Tea: Gyokuro is a premium Japanese green tea known for its sweet, mellow flavor and vibrant green color. It is grown in the shade, which increases its chlorophyll content and unique taste. Gyokuro is high in L-theanine and EGCG, making it a top choice for cancer patients.

4. Sencha Powder: Similar to matcha, sencha powder is made from powdered sencha leaves. It offers a convenient way to enjoy the benefits of sencha without the traditional steeping process.

5. Hojicha Tea: Hojicha is a roasted green tea with a nutty, slightly smoky flavor. It is lower in caffeine than other green teas and is often well-tolerated by those with caffeine sensitivity.

6. Genmaicha Tea: Genmaicha is a green tea blend that includes roasted brown rice, giving it a unique flavor with hints of popcorn or nuts. It's a mild, low-caffeine option that can be enjoyed throughout the day.

Choosing the Best Japanese Green Tea Brands in 2023

When selecting green tea for cancer patients, it's essential to choose high-quality tea from reputable brands.

If possible go for organic and choose one that don’t use plastic tea bags - especially if you are going to drink several cups a day.

Here are some brands that offer organic products:

1. Ito En - Ito En is one of Japan's largest and most respected tea companies.They offer a variety of organic green teas, including sencha and matcha.

2. Harney & Sons - While not a Japanese brand, Harney & Sons offers high-quality organic Japanese green teas, including sencha and genmaicha.

3. Rishi Tea -Rishi Tea is known for its organic and sustainably sourced teas. They offer organic Japanese green teas like sencha and gyokuro.

4. The Republic of Tea - The Republic of Tea offers an organic line of green teas, including some Japanese varieties like genmaicha.

5. Numi Organic Tea - Numi offers a range of organic green teas, including sencha and jasmine green tea.

6. Kirkland Signature (Costco Brand)- If you have access to Costco, Kirkland Signature offers organic Japanese green tea bags that are available on Amazon.

When selecting green tea for cancer patients, consider their preferences in terms of flavor and caffeine content. Some individuals may prefer milder options like sencha or genmaicha, while others may opt for the robust flavor and caffeine kick of matcha or gyokuro.

Gaining Something From Cancer - Shifting Your Focus

We focus so much on how much cancer has taken from us that we forget to notice what we've also gained along the way. 

Something I gained that I'm so grateful for is that it has strengthened my spirituality - my connection to a Higher Power. 

Prior to this, let's just say I wasn't the most spiritual person. 

My mother is a devout Catholic and me and my siblings grew up going to church every Sunday, saying grace at every meal and end the day with a nightly prayer.

When I was young, I was taught that if you pray to God - tell him what you want, he will answer your prayer. 

I soon found out that it wasn't true. I prayed for what I wanted, and quite often I didn't get what I prayed for. 

As a kid, I didn't vibe with God, it all felt a little flat, a little cumbersome, a chore, and just daily "rituals" that I followed. 

Don’t forget to pin this article for later!

So even though I grew up in a religious household, I never saw the benefits so I stopped going to church, and stopped talking to God.

It all changed when I had cancer. Suddenly I realised that spirituality was able to fill a void that I didn't know existed in my life.

So  here's a few of my spiritual learnings that I want to share with you. 

1) There’s an Afterlife

I believe there's an after life and our life doesn't end when we die. If we're spiritual beings having a human experience, then whether or not we beat cancer should AND shouldn't be the most important thing. If we can hold those two beliefs simultaneously it can really take the pressure off to get things "right" in our journey.

2) Shifting Your Focus to What You Want

The human being focuses on the negative, we focus on what we DON'T want and believing what we can do is limited. When we communicate to God what we desire, we get clear on what we want. And so prayer is a beautiful example of the power of intention. Believing in God - something that we can't see or touch allows us to practice to believe in things that we can't see YET. When we're able to focus on our desires and have unwavering faith, then the things we want will manifest naturally in our lives. And so spirituality helps us how to have faith. 

3) Letting Go is the Secret Sauce to An Easy Life

I believe in taking massive action to get the results we want. But we'll soon reach a breaking point where nothing we will ever do is enough. This is very important when it's hard to determine if we've succeeded, for example preventing a recurrence. And so the missing part of taking massive action is to THEN let go of the results. The art of letting go to a higher power is the secret sauce that most people forget to do. It creates a lot of unneccesary anxiety and stress in our lives when we hit a roadblock and realise that our personal power can only get us so far. We're not in this alone, we're supported by God and he will take over after you show up and done your part. 

4) The Goal of Life is to Grow & Evolve

If we are children of God, then God wants us to grow and evolve as a human being. So when I pray, I no longer ask God to grant me the results like he's a genie in the sky granting three wishes, I ask for the virtue, the internal resources, to help me in the journey of getting the results. For example, strength, courage, conviction, wisdom etc. Or I pray for guidance when I'm confused in making a decision. When I'm clear that I'm here to grow and evolve then I'm more focused on the journey, the experience, the growth rather than being attached to the outcome. 

5) Underneath All That Fear, All You’ll Find is Love

God is love and god heals fear with love. Fear is where our biggest growth lies. So don't runaway from fear, go towards the fear. And under all that fear, what you'll find is unconditional love. 

And so my friend, as you can see cancer has given me a lot in terms of my spirituality!

    •    Embracing my spiritual side allowed me make sense when my logical brain couldn't make sense of things. 

    •    Embracing my spiritual side allowed me to ease the pressure off myself to create results because I felt supported by a higher power

    •    Embracing my spirituality helped me to cultivate faith - believing in things that I cannot see

    •    Embracing my spirituality gave me courage to look beneath my fears and found unconditional love instead

I hope that helps and let me know in the comments down below what you've gained from your journey of healing from cancer? Remember to PIN this for later!

All my love,

Trifina Sofian

Life Coach to Cancer Survivors

PS: If you’re struggling to thrive in your cancer healing journey then I have an announcement for you. I’m taking bookings for 1:1 coaching clients (limited spots available). This is the mindset coaching and training you need to go from depressed, fearful and overwhelmed to focused, energised and expanded! I will share with you step-by-step exactly how to take charge of your body, mind and spirit during cancer treatment and transitioning to your new normal. Secure your spot today! CLICK HERE

How to Drop the Struggle with Taking Massive Action.

If you're struggling to take action to improve something in your life here's a life hack that can help you.

I call it a hack coz it's really easy to implement. It's called - LET IT BE EASY.

So let me explain how it works. 

When you want to do something really important, incorporate a new habit, and achieve your big goals,

your mind immediately creates a set of arbitrary rules about what you have to do to achieve that goal.

We live in an age of information overload and we get overwhelmed because a lot of what we hear is good advice!

So when you try to figure out how to implement something in your life, 

you can unintentionally create a story that it has to be complicated or it's not going to be effective.  

And I think it comes from the belief that "It can't be that easy!"

And the perfectionist in us wants to "Get it right!".

And it can stop you from improving your life because you've created so much pressure and friction to DO IT RIGHT.

Take for example, Nutrition and Cancer. 

There's so much information about what to eat, what's the best diet, what's going to help when you have cancer

it can be so overwhelming to implement all the things. 

And when we don't do the things that we say we're going to do - we feel like we've somehow failed. 

We beat ourselves up for having a lack of discipline. 

And when we fail over and over again it can really affect our self-esteem, our self-trust and our self-motivation. 

So back when I was first diagnosed and  learnt that food was important for recovery I threw away the rule book and just implemented what was easy FOR ME. 

I decided that I was going to eat more steamed broccoli. Because it was easy. Because it took only 5 minutes to steam. 

I wanted to eat organic broccoli, because I heard that pesticides was not good for me.

But at the time they didn't stock organic foods at the grocery store so instead of letting perfectionism get in the way I said "F*ck it." 

I created as little friction as possible for myself. 

I did things imperfectly - because I told myself that "I couldn't F*ck it up."

Another example of when I applied the Let it BE EASY hack is when I caught myself buying into the story that preparing home cooked meals were hard work.

I really believed that home cooked meals are the healthiest and most economical way to eat. BUT……. the shopping, the prepping, the cooking, the cleaning up was becoming a grind and I struggled to stay consistent. 

One day I just DECIDED that home cooked meals were EASY.  

So when I focused on letting it be easy, I got so many downloads on HOW to make it easy. 
 

• I got groceries delivered to me - so that was easy

• I batch prep my stuff so when it came time to cook - it was easy

• I asked for help - from my daughter and husband - because being supported made things easy

• I'm constantly finding easy recipes to inspire me to cook - so it made it fun and easy

As the saying goes, what we focus on expands. And I'm constantly finding new ways to make home-made meals EASIER AND EASIER. 

Hope that hack is useful. 

Let me know one thing that you're currently struggling with that you want to be easy?

Remember, you get to JUST DECIDE that it's going to be easy!

Want more help to implement this “Let it Be Easy” hack? Book in a discovery call with me and I’ll show you how life can be easy.

All my Love,

Trifina Sofian

Life Coach to Cancer Survivors

3 Steps to Cultivate More Faith and Belief in Your Cancer Treatment

Cancer isn’t easy.

Especially when you’re about to embark on a new treatment, you’ll have a crisis of faith and belief that the treatment will work.

So how then can you summon up your inner strength when you’re feeling uncertain, because hope seems to wear thin on your shoulders?

It’s important to check with yourself on the level of hope and confidence if you undergo this treatment because it will determine how powerfully you’ll show up in your healing journey.

The more that you believe you will beat cancer, the more effective inspired action you’ll take, resulting in a more favourable result or outcome. Whereas the less belief you have that you will beat cancer, the less effective action you will take, (which may also mean you take no action because of missed opportunities) and this will result in a less favourable outcome.

So as you can see the quality of your beliefs determine the quality of your results from treatment.

And so the question becomes, if we have low belief, wavering faith, and dwindling hope about our treatment…

How can you cultivate greater belief?

How do you cultivate unwavering faith?

And fill yourself up with hope?

In this blog post I want to share with you the principles I teach my clients in the Cancer Boss Coaching Program how to strengthen their inner faith and conviction that their treatment will work.

My coaching methods are practical and they rely on cultivating personal power, so it doesn’t matter…. what the odds the doctor have given you, it doesn’t matter if your previous treatments have failed, and it doesn’t matter what religion you associate with.

What really matters is your mind, your brain and your willingness and commitment to apply these principles and change your thought patterns.

Ready?

Step #1 - Access the Quantum Field

If you’re the type of person that follows the works of Joe Dispenza then you’ve probably heard about Quantum and healing being spoken in the same sentence. If you haven’t heard of him then never mind because his work can be confusing.

If you’re like me that got kinda lost and kinda understand the quantum but kinda don’t, then I will explain to you what it is in simple terms that the average person can grasp.

The Quantum is essentially an energy field where all possibilities exist. In essence there is a reality where you are healed from cancer. And there is a reality where you didn’t heal from cancer. This is kind of hard to wrap my head around and it probably is for you too because heck physics isn’t a strong suit for many.

So here comes the simple part.

To access the Quantum (where all possibilities exist) is simple.

Even though it’s simple, some people find it not so easy - but here goes.

The portal to the Quantum is the present moment.

You can’t be in the past. And you can’t be in the future.

So if you can’t be in the past, you will need to release the past failures meaning any past memory of failures involving you or any other person.

Maybe your previous treatment didn’t work, maybe you felt like you had taken a step back in your healing journey, maybe you feel like your body is slowly declining, maybe you’re thinking about that person you know that died from cancer.

When you are in the present moment, it doesn’t matter has happened in the past. What catches people out is that they try to predict the future based on past experiences. When you think about the past or the future, you’ve immediately taken yourself out of the present moment and you’re no longer accessing the Quantum Field.

So release the past and future because they don’t exist. The past and the future are just mental constructs - something that we create in our mind. What is real is the moment of NOW. Every second is a new moment of NOW. And every second that you are present, you are accessing the Quantum.

Step #2 - Make a Decision on the Result Before You See the Result

Once you’re able to be in the present moment, think about the issue you’re dealing with this moment.

Are you in active treatment?

Are you looking for new treatment?

Whatever you’re dealing with, the next step to create more faith and belief in your treatment result is to make a decision on the result BEFORE you see the result.

Read that last sentence again to make sure you really get what I’m saying.

For example if you’re in active treatment, decide in your mind that the treatment will work no matter what. You will make it work. You will ensure it works. And so you have to commit to that result over and over again as often as you can.

If you’re looking for new treatment then decide in your mind that you’re going to find new and effective treatment. You will find a new treatment no matter what. That is just the result that you’re creating for yourself.

Decide and commit over and over again no matter the circumstance. Do not entertain any other alternatives. In fact there are no other alternatives because you’ve accessed the reality where your treatment HAS WORKED.

Step #3 - Take Massive Inspired Action

When you’ve decided that that is your reality, that you are moulding reality with your decision to create the result that you want, then the how will start to reveal itself.

The decision you have made in Step 2 is like putting in a location of where you want to go into your GPS system.

Many people make the mistake of not knowing where they want to go. Most cancer patients are a passive passenger being taken for a ride to nowhere in particular. They have no vision. Or their vision isn’t clear and accurate enough. So their GPS system gets confused and has taken them to the wrong location.

So make sure that in Step 2 you are clear with the results that you want. No wishy washy decisions.

Once you have FIRST decided on and committed to a result then the magic begins.

Opportunities will suddenly appear that is unexpected.

Clarity comes to what you need to do.

Doors will open for you.

But quite often they will be unexpected.

The way forward is not what you think would happen.

What’s happening here is your subconscious mind automatically routing a path to your destination. Your subconscious mind will be whispering to you and nudging you, here’s the way! And this is when you need to listen and take massive inspired action. Massive action may look like lots of action.

But what I think is more important is that:

Massive action is action taken from massive belief.

And that is how you cultivate the feeling of certainty and safety within yourself.

In fact YOU become the source of certainty and safety and when you’re able to self-source that emotional need, then your confidence in your cancer healing journey will explode. We do this work everyday inside of my Program Cancer Boss Coaching. I hope you will join me in cultivating more faith and belief. Book your timeslot for a FREE initial consult.

How to Set Powerful Intentions for 2022 - Start the Year STRONG AF!

“I can’t believe it’s February already!”

If you’re like me and want to start 2022 off strong, but quickly come to the realisation that January is done and dusted, then I’ve got a treat for you.

The solar new year may be on the 1st Jan, BUT, the lunar new year was only last week!

So let this post be your sign/permission to re-do 2022! Yay!

So……. BEFORE I list down my new year resolutions, goals, or desires that I want to achieve this year, I FIRST set an intention.

I do this by doing a fun activity called “WORD OF THE YEAR”.

I’ve done this 3 years straight and it’s so much fun and such a VALUABLE exercise. I promise you that once you do this, you’ll guarantee to do it every year!

“What’s that you ask?” HOW do I pick out my word of the year?

Well, this might not come to you right away, but what you can do is ask yourself these 4 POWERFUL questions.

For example for 2022…

1) What do I want the year to FEEL like?

2) What is the vibe that I want to EXPERIENCE?

3) What didn’t go well for me last year? What lessons did I learn from last year?

4) What’s really going to help me this year to achieve my goals?

Just let yourself marinade in these questions and when you least expect it, ONE word or theme will shine through. You’ll KNOW that it’s the right word for you because you’ll feel it as a full body YES.

(Don’t forget to PIN this article so you’ll know the method next year)

Want to know what my WORD OF THE YEAR is? My word for 2022 is powerful AF in terms of promoting my well-being as I pursue my goals. I reveal it in my video below. Click the image to watch.

Word of The Year for 2022 Revealed | Set Your Intentions & Achieve Your Goals for The New Year

How to Prevent Breast Cancer - What Your Doctor Isn't Telling YOU.

Has your doctor ever discussed how to keep your breasts healthy?

Considering breast cancer is at epidemic levels, isn't it surprising that most likely they haven't?

I mean if you’ve had a heart attack, then wouldn’t they have a discussion with you and give you tips on how to keep your health healthy?

So let me be the first to speak out about breast health during this breast cancer awareness month.

The foundation to healthy breasts is METABOLIC health.

To some of you this may be surprising…..

To some of you, you might be feeling skeptical, especially if you have been identified as having breast cancer genes.

Yes, there are genes for breast cancer which makes some people (me included) susceptible to breast and other cancers. But remember the key word is "susceptible".

Genes like BRCA1 and BRCA2 are tumour suppressor genes - in layman's terms, those who have a BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation don't repair DNA mutations as well as those without the mutation.

Other inherited gene mutations have also been linked to breast cancer.

• PALB2

• CHEK2

• ATM

• NBN

• STK11

These are just a few that needs to be checked in the context of genetic testing, especially if you have been diagnosed with breast cancer at a young age or you have a strong family history of breast cancer.

But the real question is, what's driving those mutations in the first place?

So before blaming your "bad genes" for giving you cancer, consider the fact that researchers have been looking at gene mutations as the cause of cancer for a long time and billions of dollars in research hasn't come up with a cure.

This line of thinking - called the Somatic Theory of Cancer hasn't gotten us closer to the holy grail of eliminating cancer.

The question is why does ONE breast cell turn into cancer?

And why doesn’t ALL of our breast cells turn into cancer?

The answer lies in the environment that the cell is in. If the "soil" is rich then the "seed" will grow.

Breast cancer cells respond to hormone changes like oestrogen.

So it’s quite straight forward that hormonal health is key to breast health. (Remember that even cancers like triple negative breast cancer that doesn’t rely on oestrogen to drive its growth was once a normal breast cell that responds to hormones).

If you’re a woman who wants to protect the health of her breasts, you must be extremely conservative when it comes to external sources of hormones eg. the pill, HRT, IVF, xenoestrogens.

Mother nature has given us a body that is in balance. You can think of oestrogen as the accelerator of breast cell growth and progesterone as the brakes. If any additional sources of hormones are introduced in the body, it can tip the delicate balance of breast cell proliferation and senescence.

Many of us are oestrogen dominant. And this environment has make it easy for breast cells to grow and grow and grow, tipping the balance of cell replication and gene mutations.

So other than external sources of synthetic hormones, our hormone health is also determined internally by our metabolic health.

Why do your think that being overweight is a risk factor for breast cancer?

We all know that thin women can get breast cancer too.

Heck, I had always been underweight and I still got breast cancer at 29.

So how can we explain this?

Skinny girls like me can be "overweight" on the inside.

I always thought that I was blessed with skinny genes, which meant I can get away with eating crap and not exercising. And this was a huge mistake because I may not look obese on the outside, but my bloods don't lie and they reveal disease waiting to happen eg. fatty liver, high cholesterol.

So it's important for every woman to have great metabolic health and not just take into account weight as the measure for metabolic health.

Another crucial thing to note which no one is talking about is the effect of chronic stress on our metabolic health. The stress response or the fight or flight response is exactly just that…

It's a metabolic response to danger.

Every time we get stressed our body releases glucose into the blood stream to either "fight" or run like mad. Imagine getting glucose spikes for hours everyday for months on end.

This is the way stress creates the perfect environment for cancer cells to grow.

Stress also dampens our immune system GREATLY, which is part of our innate ability to keep cancer cells at bay.

Is it any wonder that most women with breast cancer have reported they were in great emotional stress prior to their diagnosis?

As you can see, all roads point to metabolic health as the tool to maintain breast health. Even doctors can't deny the mounting evidence that exercise can prevent a recurrence. Because again exercise greatly affects your global metabolic health.

Make sure to SHARE this blog post to loved ones, because raising awareness for breast cancer doesn't just mean raising awareness to check for lumps. We all need to play a part in raising awareness for breast health in order to PREVENT breast cancer and curb this epidemic.

And we can start doing this by educating our daughters, our sisters, our mothers, our aunts and our friends how to keep their breasts healthy. Because perpetuating the myth that breast cancer is bad luck keeps us in denial over how to combat this disease.

XOXO Trifina

Deciding on Breast Reconstruction? Love Your Body Either Way.

Are you thinking of getting breast reconstruction?

If you’re in the early phase of thinking about it then this post is for you, because I’m going to raise some important issues that will guide your decision making, so that hopefully you can gain more clarity in your thought process to ensure that you make the decision that’s right for you. 

Ok let’s get into it.

If you’re pretty set on a single or double mastectomy where do you even start in terms of thinking about the possibility of breast reconstruction.

 Start with making the first decision.

So the first thing that you want to think about is whether you want to have any form of breast reconstruction at all or remain flat. When I was going through my breast cancer, I honestly didn’t think that going flat was an option.

My breast surgeon was so worried about my body image because I was so young when I was diagnosed (I was 29 years old at the time) that I just got caught up in what they thought and never really thought  about the benefits of going flat.

So I just want to put it out there that going flat is an option for you and that no one says that you must undergo breast reconstruction to feel whole again.

Cultivate Self-Acceptance Within You

What’s becoming more and more apparent to me is that body confidence comes from the inside and nothing to do with how perfect you look on the outside.

And what is perfect anyway?

You see if you feel confident on the inside that in of itself is such an attractive quality, because people around you can see and feel that you’re confident about yourself then they’re naturally drawn to you.

Just think about it, you can have the perfect quote unquote body, but if you’re not accepting of yourself on the inside you may still don’t feel good or attractive enough on the outside– what really matters is the relationship you have with your body that will determine the level of self-confidence.

Don’t let others or society dictate whether you need reconstruction or not because we are more than our cleavage.

 I want you to check out this dove commercial of a breast cancer survivor who is strutting her stuff and feel confident and accepting of her mastectomy scars.

So even though you feel like you just want to move on with your life and get through this journey as fast as you can, I think this period is a perfect opportunity for us to work on our self acceptance and self love.

So if you’re thinking about breast reconstruction, make sure that you’re doing it for yourself and not to please someone else. Because honestly, we breast cancer survivors can and need to redefine beauty in our own terms.

 Have a vision

 The second thing that you want to think about is what are you goals for breast reconstruction.

I wanted to have the least invasive surgery as possible even though I might not achieve the most realistic reconstruction possible. And I was ok with that.

So start thinking about what your goals. Explore the different options available, because there are couple of different options depending on your situation when it comes to breast reconstruction. So for example, some women might not want anything artificial in their bodies so they are against having implants.

So ask yourself what’s really important for you in terms of your values and the outcome of the reconstruction.   

 Reconstruction is a long process – be patient

 The third tip that I have for you when you’re thinking about reconstruction is to be patient.

Look reconstruction involves many steps, sometimes multiple surgeries along the way it can be a long and painful process. So expect things to take time and make sure that when you consult with your plastic surgeon that they explain to you the steps involved in the type of reconstruction you want. If you’re having radiation after your mastectomy then you need to wait for at least a year for the radiated tissues to heal.

Because after radiation, the tissues are no longer as regenerative and therefore wound healing after the surgery can be compromised.

So not only do you have to wait for the healing after radiation, but if there are complications that arise, this can make the reconstruction process even longer. So make sure that you’re clear on what the timelines are for recovery.

And if complications do arise then expect things to take time to heal and make progress. So the key takeaway here is to be patient and not get frustrated when things take longer than they should.

So for example, right now as we’re dealing with this covid-19 thing, many hospitals have cancelled their elective surgeries and many patients who have planned on getting their reconstructive surgeries are now delayed and have to re-schedule their surgeries.

 Align your vision of breast reconstruction with a surgeon that gets YOU.

 The third thing that’s very important once you have that clarity is to find a surgeon that aligns with your vision and empathetic to your concerns.

Now you want to find a really good plastic surgeon that specialises in breast reconstruction because this isn’t an easy procedure and can come with complications.

Having said that the first plastic surgeon that I saw that partnered with my breast surgeon was too much of a perfectionist and he wasn’t listening to what I was envisioning for my reconstruction.

And usually at the consult, you’ll be able to gauge how comfortable you are when you walk out that door.

Do you feel happy that you’ve been heard and that they have a great plan for you, or perhaps you feel like they’ve missed the mark and totally don’t see or hear you at all. And there’s no reason why you can’t have multiple opinions.

My plastic surgeon that I eventually went with was actually my third opinion. So take your time in finding the right one.

 It’s Not Now or Never

 You probably know that cancer treatment is long and hard and maybe you’re wanting to do reconstruction but right now you’re too exhausted.

So, if your mind and body is just too tired right now and that’s ok. No one says that you have to do reconstruction right away. You can stay flat for right now and in fact, you can do reconstruction anytime you want in the future.

Maybe you’ll be in a better headspace in a few years time and your body has recovered from all the treatment that you’ve done.

Or maybe in a few years time you’ve changed your mind. Who knows right.

The most important thing is to not rush into things when you’re not ready.  

Finding the Courage to Prevent a Relapse

Have you ever asked yourself what it was you did to get cancer?

Well you’re not alone. Many cancer survivors want to get to the bottom of this question. 

And today I’m going help you answer this question in a way that doesn’t make you feel burdened with guilt about what you may have done in the past.

You can approach this question with sensitivity, understanding and most importantly curiosity so that you can finally find the answers to that burning question – What caused my cancer? 

 Because when you’re clear on the answer, it allows you to put the brakes on cancer development and to transform your health.

Stop Focusing on the Past

A word of caution.

Do not go down the rabbit hole and ask yourself the “WHAT IFS”

• What if I didn’t drink? 

• What if I didn’t eat that food?

• What if I didn’t put my phone in my pocket. Would I have gotten cancer in the first place?

Trust me, the “WHAT IFS” are going to drive you crazy.

If you focus on the past, you’re going to feel so much guilt and so much suffering.

So if you notice yourself wondering on the what ifs then stop right now. 

There’s no upside whatsoever in judging yourself for your past actions. We as humans are not perfect. We don’t know everything there is to know about health and honestly we are all living the best way we can.  

So instead of focusing on the things we can’t change - which is the past, I want you to focus on what you can change. Focus on the now and the future. 

A Magic Bullet?

I get it. We want answers and we want to get roots of the problem but the majority of cancer survivors approach the question of cause in the wrong way. 

They fall into the trap of “THE ONE THING” mentality. 

What do I mean by that?  Well they think there’s one thing that must have caused their cancer, and is searching and trying to rack their brain, and look for that one single thing. 

·      Was it my deodorant?

·     Was it because I colored my hair?

·     Was it something I ate?

·     Or drank?

·      Was it stress?

You see most cancers, especially cancer types like breast cancer are multifactorial.

Because the things that caused my cancer, is going to be different to the things that caused your cancer, even if we had the exact same pathology results.  

 Therefore, the one thing mentality is flawed thinking and most often creates more confusion for the cancer survivor especially if they see “evidence” that refutes that one thing. 

 For example, if a woman with breast cancer thinks it’s her genetics and gets tested for the presence of breast cancer genes, and the results came back negative, they’re first of all relieved to get a negative result but their hypothesis that it was genetic was disproved by the test. So their question of what caused their cancer remains unanswered and confusion sets in, and many people stop enquiring way too early because  they feel overwhelmed to figure it out.

Is Cancer Due to Bad Luck?

Have you noticed how cancer doctors rarely ask about your lifestyle?  The fact of the matter is, cancer is complicated and the factors that drive its growth is multifaceted and interconnected.

 So what do oncologists say to their patients? They tell their patients that it was bad luck. 

What the oncologist really means is that he doesn’t know what caused your cancer and he doesn’t have any straight answers for you. You have to also understand the practicalities of it all. A standard oncology consult already lasts for an hour, he has barely have enough time to explain to you the treatment plan and the side-effects associated with it, let alone have time to go through your whole life history.

 Instead, your doctor reassures you that there’s nothing you did that caused it and that cancer doesn’t discriminate. Which is pretty sweet in a way, but can also misleading and disempowering for the woman. Because if we don’t know what caused our cancer, then how are we suppose to stop it from coming back?

Can you imagine if you were diagnosed with heart disease, type II diabetes and the doc said it was bad luck? It sounds ludicrous, no doctor would say that to you. 

If cancer was bad luck, then the cancer researchers out there that’s researching the causes of cancer should stop what they’re doing because you simply can’t study bad luck. 

Understanding the Terrain

We want to think about the causes of our cancer as our own unique risk factors. Like a fingerprint, no one else in the whole world have the same risk factors as yours. Because our physiology, the way we live, our experiences we go through, the environment, our genetics all play a part in cancer development.

And instead of looking for individual factors that pinpoint cause, a more useful way of looking at cancer development is to understand The Terrain.

You see, everyone has microscopic cancer cells in their body (due to the fact that we are a multicellular organism). But not everyone develops a tumour. Think about microscopic cancer cells as the seed and the terrain as the soil. If the soil is unfavourable, then nothing will grow. So, if you’re serious about preventing a relapse, then not only will you have to get rid of the cancer (by undergoing treatment), you also have to fix the terrain as well.

Finding Greater Awareness of Your Life

“Awareness is all about restoring your freedom to choose what you want instead of what your past imposes on you.”

-Deepak Chopra

If we really want to start taking control of health and our recovery, we need to have the courage to take inventory of our own life. The first step in transforming our health is to have awareness. And believe me, you have to do some inner work to create awareness. It’s not that easy to put a mirror up to your life, in fact it can feel quite confronting and you can easily judge yourself too harshly. And that’s not going to serve you.

So I want you to go easy on yourself. Let your curiosity guide you. Start by imagining yourself as a scientist, just observing your daily life. Most of the time we are on gogogo mode. We live our lives on autopilot and rarely stop to think about the things that are out of balance. 

For example, when our body gives us signals that something is breaking down we often ignore it, because the problem isn’t big enough and it’s easier to sweep it aside, take a pill, suppress the symptoms than to address head on. 

And we all know that little niggles in our body when left unnoticed can sooner or later lead to full blown disease. 

Remember that disease starts with a feeling of dis-ease in your body.

Transformation is Just as Important as Information

Deep down, we know what the key healthy habits are. We need to eat fruits and vegetables, get regular exercise,  get enough sleep, don’t stress and avoid processed foods and toxins.

Intellectually we know that a lifestyle change is probably the smartest thing to do to prevent cancer from recurring again, but many of us struggle to change and feel emotionally conflicted.

 A big reason why lifestyle change is so hard, because there’s lack of awareness of what’s driving our behaviour. You see, there’s usually a big mental and emotional component that’s not addressed and therefore preventing us from making those changes in our lifestyle.

Dis-ease isn’t just felt in your body, it’s also felt in the mind. 

Think about our “bad” habits. Over eating, over drinking, siting around on the couch and not exercising are the ways in which a lot of people cope with life. 

It’s the way we comfort and soothe ourselves because life is hard and yet we have to be a big girl, carry on and keep going. 

Its no wonder we feel uncomfortable and conflicted when we think about changing our lifestyle because, it means we have to let go of the ways in which we cope with life itself.

So what do we do?

We talk ourselves out by remembering what our oncologist told us that it’s all down to bad luck, cancer doesn’t discriminate and it’s not within our control. 

And I think if you believe that then you’re just giving your power and responsibility away. You’ll feel hopeless about the future because you feel helpless against a cancer recurrence.

I feel that education is important.

We need to do our research about the types of food to eat, the vitamins to take, and all the different strategies to prevent cancer. But when you’re always looking at the external world about what to do, you’ll always be chasing for that next thing.

You’ll feel that you’re never doing enough prevention and you’ll end up living a life chasing for the “cure”.

So it’s equally important to look inwards for the answers. You need those “aha” moments, you need those personal breakthroughs and realisations. When you yourself start noticing the things in your life that are out of balance, that aren’t serving you. Those are going to be the most powerful drivers of your transformation. Not what people think you should do.

Instead of feeling like life is going to be restricted you’ll feel like you want to change and have the motivation to change. Because when you have those breakthroughs, you’re going to feel differently and therefore you’ll act differently.

The question is, do you have the courage to look at your life at a deeper level?

If you really believe that you have the power to prevent a recurrence, and that change is needed in your life, I have a resource to help you just that.

To get you started in noticing dis-ease in your life, I’ve created a free tool for you called the Dis-ease life inventory exercise. This exercise helps you observe 4 key areas of your life.

It’s free for you to download for a limited time only so go ahead, grab the free worksheet, fill it out, it won’t take you long and start creating that level of awareness. You’ll be surprised by how many things in your life that you’ve stopped taking notice of.

By creating that awareness, you’re then one step closer to what nourishes you, strengthens you and protects you.

Don’t wait for permission to make yourself a priority.

Once you’ve finished the exercise, make sure you leave a comment down below and tell me what aha moments you’ve made about your life.

Everything in life is all about perspective. You can view a cancer diagnosis as a death sentence, or you can view it as your wake up call to take greater notice of your life and be the healthiest version of yourself.

Don’t forget to leave me a comment down below after you’ve done the DIS-EASE Life Inventory Exercise and tell me your biggest A-HA moment.

From Pro-Cancer to Anti-Cancer: The Lifestyle Changes I Made After My Cancer Diagnosis

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our disclosure for more info.

Why do some people’s cancer advance in a few short months to Stage IV while others remain cancer-free for decades?

That was the big question that I kept asking myself when I was first diagnosed with cancer.

My hypothesis was that those long-term survivors must be doing something extra.

I had so much more living to do. I wasn’t finished yet with life so I created a mission for myself after I was diagnosed - to discover the critical factors that explained why two people with seemingly similar cancer diagnosis and treatment can ultimately lead to different outcomes.

I believe that approaching our adversity with a sense of curiosity can propel us and motivate us to take action.

So I did what a normal cancer patient does when they’ve been diagnosed with cancer…

…I strolled into the bookstore.

I wasn’t sure what I was looking for in those shelves…

… a self-help book perhaps?

After thumbing a few book spines, it wasn’t long before I spotted an interesting cover and title.

“ANTICANCER - A NEW WAY OF LIFE.”

It was the first time that I’ve ever heard of such a term.

Most of you who are battling cancer probably have many many questions swimming in your brains when you try to sleep at night.

“How can we minimise a recurrence?”

“How can we maximise the benefits of conventional treatment?”

“How can we prevent future cancers? For ourselves and our families.”

When I asked my oncologist about any special lifestyle changes I needed to make, I hit a brick wall. He gave me no clue whatsoever and instead told me to live the way I had been living previous to my diagnosis.

Since my own doctor didn’t give me any answers, I had to ask doctor google about “how to cure cancer”.

That’s one massive rabbit hole that I’m sure every cancer patient has gone down in. It’s deep, windy and very very dark.

“As humans we all want a quick fix.”

No matter how much I wanted to believe it in my heart, I knew there wasn’t a magic pill, fruit, herb, or device that can cure cancer.

I’m not saying that we never will find one as I know we’ve made significant and positive strides in the field of immunotherapy fighting cancers like melanoma, but as of today, there isn’t a universal cure for cancer …YET.

However, feeling helpless when we’re battling the biggest fight of our lives can be the detriment to us cancer survivors.

Cancer has taken our health and our peace of mind.

If we can gain some sense of control over our bodies, then more power to us.

In that bookstore, I quickly read a few lines of the introduction that blew my mind.

I shut the book, beelined for the till and quickly paid for it so I could devour the entire contents at home.

What did I read that filled me with so much optimism?

That’s what I wanted to share with you today.

In the opening line of his book Anticancer - A new way of life, Dr Servan-Schreibber wrote:

Cancer lies dormant in all of us. Like all living organisms, our bodies are making defective cells all the time…

…if we all have a potential cancer lying dormant in all of us, each of us also has a body designed to fight the process of tumour development.

It is up to each of us to use our body’s natural defences.

If you’re able to let this piece of insight sink in to the marrow of your bones, then you’re halfway to understanding and unlocking the changes you need to make to your own lifestyle.

How did I not know this piece of information? I’ve been studying medical science for many years but I felt like I had so much to learn about the human body and unlocking our health potential.

Let me simplify what Dr Servan-Schreibber was trying to say in his introduction, just so you can marinate in it some more:

Everyone has cancer cells but not everyone develops cancer.

Looking back on my journey, I now realise what a profound moment that was. Because of that singular moment in the bookstore, I was radically inspired to make changes to my lifestyle, that I believed increased my odds of beating early stage aggressive breast cancer…

…from plausible… to probable… to inevitable.

I knew that I didn’t have the healthiest lifestyle pre-cancer and I knew that I needed to make drastic changes.

“This is a wake up call.” I said to myself.

A study in the UK published in British Journal of Medicine in 2015 states that most cancers are preventable by 40%.

In Anticancer - A new way of life, Dr Servan-Schreibber discusses the importance of our “terrain” - the surrounding environment of the cancer cell/s that we need to maintain.

He states that individual cancer cells are actually NOT the problem.

It’s when they grow and spread that’s the problem.

If you’ve completed cancer treatment - no one can say with certainty that there are no more cancer cells left floating around in your body.

Those few stray cells can either become the seeds for metastasis or they can remain harmless micro-cancer allowing you to live a long cancer-free life.

So the whole premise of an anticancer lifestyle is to keep our bodies in a state that doesn’t promote the growth of cancer cells. Rather than having a goal of “curing cancer” we’re adopting a lifestyle that increases our innate natural defenses AGAINST cancer.

See the subtle difference?

It’s not a quick fix.

It’s a new way of life.

I believe that something that claims to “cure cancer” can provide false hope for patients.

But a lifestyle that promotes health is an incredibly empowering way for

cancer survivors to TAKE BACK CONTROL of our health.

Halting the 4 Steps to Metastasis

Before I dive in about the lifestyle changes I made, I want you to understand that the process for a single rogue cancer cell to become a life-threatening metastases involves four distinct steps.

1. Cancer cells are created when abnormal DNA changes occur in normal cells. This can be due to mutagens in the environment and/or the breakdown in the integrity of our own cell replication machinery.

2. Individual cancer cells escape detection by the immune system and their growth is triggered by inflammation and growth factors.

3. Clumps of cancer cells reaches a critical mass where further growth is restricted and in order to grow further, the tumour must create their own blood supply a term called angiogenesis.

4. When this happens, cancer cells within the tumour become even more aggressive and enters the blood stream or lymph nodes and eventually spreading to other organs where it becomes life-threatening.

The whole premise of an anticancer lifestyle therefore can be simplified into four main goals.

1. Decrease our exposure to toxins and mutagens

2. Create a powerful immune system.

3. Dampen inflammation.

4. Suppress the growth of new blood vessels (angiogenesis).

Anticancer Foods - Foods that Hurt & Foods that Heal

After diagnosis, I’ve changed to a mostly plant based diet, eating some fish and seafood occasionally. If you knew me before cancer, then you would know how hard this was. You see, I had been blessed with skinny genes that allowed me to eat anything I wanted without piling on the pounds.

However, you can see how unhealthy I was by the appearance of my skin. I had breakouts everywhere on my face and body, my cholesterol was through the roof just to name a few things.

I started my journey towards an anticancer lifestyle by juicing everyday. This is a pretty easy thing to do to flush out toxins, regulate your blood sugar and increase your nutrition.

I gave up red meat, dairy, sugar and alcohol because I knew they were fuelling inflammation.

To further dampen levels of inflammation, I chose low glycemic index carbs and switched from eating jasmine rice to basmati rice.

Increased my intake of Omega-3s by eating fish, flax seeds, avocados and supplementing with a good fish oil.

I also avoided packaged foods for the reasons that Dr Servan-Schreibber explains:

We have been won over not just by margarine but also to a large extent by processed foods, such as cookies, crackers, pastries, pizza, or potato chips, containing “hydrogenated” or “partially hydrogynated” vegetable oils (trans fats). These are omega-6 oils (especially soy, sometimes palm or canola oil) altered to become solid at room temperature.

This change makes them less digestible and even more inflammatory than omega-6s in their natural state.

But these oils have a practical advantage: They do not grow stale.

That’s why they are used in almost all the processed foods destined to spend weeks or months on supermarket shelves…..They didn’t exist before World War II, yet their production and consumption have exploded since 1940.

Chapter 6: The Anticancer Environment

It’s tempting when doing the grocery shopping to be sucked in to the glistening packaging and convenience of processed foods. They may seem very inviting in their appearance, but if you imagine processed foods as frankenstein foods then you know how bad they really are for us.

The more I read about different anticancer foods, the more I realise the health benefits of eating “traditional foods”. As a south-east asian that have migrated to Australia when I was very young, I’ve moved towards a westernised way of eating. I’m now very mindful of that and try to think about the many healthy things that my relatives back home would be eating that I’ve forgotten about.

To boost my immune system, I eat asian mushrooms and fermented foods such as miso, kimchi and tempeh.

In Japan, the shiitake, maitake, kawaratake, and enokitake mushrooms are staple foods. They are now also found in hospitals where they are provided to patients during chemotherapy treatment. These mushrooms contain a molecule called letinans, and this along with other polysaccharides they contain in great quantities, stimulates the immune system directly.

Chapter 8 - The Anticancer Foods

I’m very lucky that in Australia I can source most things in my local supermarket or oriental supermarkets that are close to my house. If you’ve never ventured into these ethnic stores then I encourage you to do so - you’ll find many anticancer foods here.

If you live in a remote area, try ordering online otherwise stick to what you can reasonably source locally.

When I was in treatment, my mom told me that she knew a long term survivor of breast cancer. Her secret - she ate a broccoli everyday.

CRUCIFEROUS VEGETABLES are known for their anticancer properties eg. broccoli, cauliflower, Chinese broccoli, cabbage and kale.

I took that information and ran with it, so now my go-to vegetable is steamed broccoli, it’s a fast no-brainer anticancer food that I eat almost everyday.

I also drink green tea which contains active compounds such as EGGC - a powerful angiogenesis inhibitor. Dr Servan-schreibber recommends drinking 6 cups everyday.

In addition to the foods that I eat, I also take many anticancer supplements. Many of which I discuss in this article.

RELATED ARTICLE: MY TOP 10 EVIDENCE-BASED ANTICANCER SUPPLEMENTS

If you’ve read my bio, then you know that I drink a blueberry smoothie every morning. Not only are berries anticancer, but I read a couple of years ago in a scientific paper that showed blueberries were able to stop the metastasis of triple negative breast cancer in a mouse model.

People ask me for the recipe for my blueberry smoothie all the time, and I think the key to adopting an anticancer lifestyle is that it is SO SIMPLE that you’re able to constantly push your pro-cancer body from that red zone to the green zone.

It’s not something that you eat, drink or do once in a while.

It’s a DAILY way of life.

Anticancer Activity - Exercise is My Biggest Weapon Against A Cancer Recurrence

“Myth - Exercise is only for those who want to lose weight”

At school I was one of those girls that hated exercise with a passion. I had been underweight my whole life and never saw the point of getting all sweaty and hot, so I would find any excuse not to participate.

Sometimes, we have beliefs that unknowingly holds us back in life and in our health. Today I’ve replaced those old limiting beliefs about exercise and now understand that it’s my biggest weapon against a cancer recurrence.

If you’re eating healthy but don’t exercise, then you’re only addressing half of the anticancer equation.

I believe that exercise is a big part of being able to minimise a recurrence.

When I replaced my limiting beliefs with new empowering beliefs I immediately started to adopt a vigorous exercise regime during my cancer treatment.

I attributed how well I handled chemo to all the physical activity I did during treatment. Chemo-related fatigue affects many cancer patients and can last well after treatment has ended.

Very few patients receive advice about the benefits of exercise and how it can counteract the side-effects of cancer treatment.

Today, I go to the gym to do strength training, cardio and yoga.

Everyday, I try to get some activity in everyday even if it means just walking.

The best is exercising in nature. Because you get the beauty, tranquility and fresh air in one hit.

The reason that exercise is such a powerful anticancer habit is that it affects many metabolic pathways at once. There’s too many to list and here are just some of them.

• Builds muscle, decreases blood sugar fluctuations and secretion of insulin and insulin-like growth factor (key factors in cancer growth)

• Decreases fat tissue - a storage site for carcinogens that have built up in the body

• Sweating detoxifies the body

• Improves hormonal balance (reduces excess oestrogen and testosterone)

• Increases oxygen levels in tissues

• It cushions the negative mental and physical effect of stress.

• Decreases inflammation

• Promotes better sleep

Anticancer Mind : Stress Reduction & Resilience

There’s no doubt normal life is stressful enough.

On top of that being diagnosed with cancer, going through treatment and finding what our new normal looks like can make our stress levels go through the roof.

Our fight-or-flight response to stress triggers the secretion of factors that’s supposed to protect us from danger, however, feeling anxious, worrying and feelings of helplessness can add fuel to the fire.

“These hormone prepare the body for a potential wound, in part by stimulating the inflammation factors needed to repair tissues. At the same time, these hormones are also fertiliser for cancerous tumors, latent or already established.”

Chapter 4 - Cancer’s weakness

I believe that feeling empowered in your cancer journey can alleviate some of the stresses that you’ll experience. Therefore a adopting a growth mindset - knowing that deep in your heart that everything is figureoutable can be extremely beneficial in your cancer journey.

It’s also important to do a “stress audit” on your lives because many of us go about our day on autopilot.

If something isn’t working then it’s time to deal with it once and for all.

Ask yourself what’s been keeping you up at night before your cancer diagnosis.

Was it a stressful job?

A nasty divorce? A toxic relationship?

Financial troubles?

It’s time that we get super serious about fixing them or get rid of them altogether so that they’re not constantly chipping away at our anticancer reserves.

Good Quality Sleep is Anticancer.

I think sleep is such an under-rated health area, not just for cancer but also for many chronic diseases.

So why does good quality sleep protect us against cancer?

We know that during optimal sleep, we release a powerful anticancer hormone from our pineal gland called melatonin.

A study published in Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention, a journal of the American Association of Cancer Research (AACR), found that long-term night shift work among women increased the risk of cancer by 19%.

The study also looked at the effect of night shift work on female nurses.

Compared to their colleagues who didn’t do night shift work, female nurses who worked the night shift had a 58% increased risk of breast cancer, 35% increased risk of gastrointestinal cancer, and a 28% increased risk of lung cancer.

Exposure to artificial light after dusk and before sleep time can inhibit melatonin release during sleep. This explains why long-term night shift workers are at greater risk of developing cancer.

Remember to turn off all the lights in your room during sleep - even a night light can inhibit melatonin secretion.

Use of electronic devices in the home can also inhibit secretion of melatonin. I know I look at my smartphone, my computer and watch TV before bed.

I love my technology and we don’t have to live in the dark ages, and one way we can prevent melatonin inhibition is by installing blue light filters in our electronic devices. Currently, I’m researching about the ways we can set up our home lighting so it doesn’t affect our family’s ability to secrete melatonin during sleep.

Are you not getting deep, restful sleep?

Quality and quantity is crucial. This is important stuff that you can’t ignore any longer because you can unknowingly inhibit the secretion of this powerful anticancer hormone. It’s time you get serious about sleep.

Anticancer Environment - Decreasing Toxins - Minimize then Eliminate:

Once we’re diagnosed, we’re hyper-aware about everything that is toxic around us. We can’t live in a bubble but creating a toxic-free home can seem so overwhelming at first.

So my mantra in creating an anticancer environment is to MINIMIZE FIRST then ELIMINATE LATER.

Some things I did to decrease my toxin levels include:

• removal of my mercury fillings

• decreased my makeup and skincare products and minimizing its use

• always choosing fragrance-free when possible

• choosing natural alternatives eg. coconut oil vs body lotion

• BPA-free plastics

• Cook in stainless steel, PFOA-free non-stick pans

• Remove toxic cleaning products

• Opening the windows to the house to “air out” toxic vapours

Making healthy lifestyle changes that bolster our anticancer defences is an important way we can take back control of our health.

Beating cancer is a marathon not a sprint. It’s all about what we do day in and day out.

Consistency is about asking yourself this question every… single… day.

“How is my terrain? Have I been PROcancer or ANTIcancer today?”

Got questions or comments? Join the conversation with me on instagram.

Suggested Reading (affiliate links):

How to Get Over the Shock & Overwhelm of a Cancer Diagnosis

If you’re reading this then chances are you’ve recently been diagnosed with the Big C. I don’t envy the position you’re in, because just like you, I’ve been where you are.

It was damn tough.

The good news is that the beginning is the hardest part.

It can only get better on from here and out. But, and this is a big BUT, that’s only if you choose to.

The keyword here being CHOOSE. You can either CHOOSE to go through this journey sad, and depressed. Or you can CHOOSE a better alternative.

That is, to view this cancer thing as a challenge. To take an active role in everything and make the most out of a bad situation.

Listen, no one expects you to be happy and smiling all the time, but you can give yourself permission to be happy and smiling some of the time. But I’ll go into more detail in another post.

First let’s try and address the shock and overwhelm that you’re feeling right now.

You’re probably trying to process what just happened. One day you were living your life and the next you’re looking at death in the face. Cancer was the first time that I came face to face with my mortality and I was only 29 years old back then. I foolishly thought that I was young and invincible.

It was a real scary time. But I want to get real with you here.

It’s important for you to regain your emotional bearings as quickly as possible.

Because when it comes to the Big C, the medical community tends to move fast and decisions will be made, with or without your insight and input. It’s easy to get swept up in the momentum of diagnosis and treatment. Add to that the complex nature of cancer and the interdisciplinary team of pathologist, oncologist, surgeons, radio-oncologists and nurses. Often times, critical details are overlooked, and mistakes are made.

So if you’re emotionally overwhelmed , it’s important to get to that space where you can breathe and more importantly to THINK. When it comes to something as important as fighting cancer, having the brainpower to think clearly can mean the difference between life and death.

So you may be asking,

How do I do this? How do I process the fear, sadness and anxiety?

I remembered my diagnosis like it was yesterday and when I got the shocking news, I literally couldn’t stop crying for days. My eyes were a puffy mess and if someone tried to talk to me I would literally start bawling. I was so sad that my life had taken a turn for the worst.

But after a couple of days something incredible happened.

I realised that no matter how hard or how long I cried nothing was going to change the fact that I have cancer.

Yup!

I have cancer.

And if you’re reading this…

You too have cancer.

Diagnosed with the Big C is a tectonic shift in anyone’s life. Nothing will be the same again.

The sooner you accept this reality, the sooner you’ll have the white space to breathe,

….and think,

….and make the best decisions,

….and oversee everything.

The Paradox of Acceptance.

Life can really suck - and getting a diagnosis of cancer is just one of those moments. Emotions aren’t our enemy. Fear, worry and sadness are all normal responses to cancer. But rather than letting our emotions rules us, we can give new meaning to the emotions we feel and use it to fuel our fighting spirit.

However, if…

… you can’t even wrap the idea that you have cancer,

…you can’t fathom that you’ve been diagnosed,

then you’re likely in resistance mode.

The longer you RESIST your current circumstance - the more you end up inflicting emotional pain on yourself over and over again.

Resistance is kind of like you shaking a soda can - the pressure builds up as the gases inside expands. Resistance is the pressure inside that creates panic and anxiety.

So how do we relieve that internal conflict? Acceptance is really an important life tool we need to adopt.

The pain that you create now is always some form of nonacceptance,

some form of unconscious resistance to what is.” - Eckhart Tolle

But here’s the thing. As humans, we are conditioned to avoid negative things that cause us pain and suffering. So accepting our present circumstance goes against our human nature - which is why this stuff isn’t easy. No one wants to accept that they have cancer, face gruelling treatment and possible death.

Therefore it’s important to understand the Paradox of Acceptance - that is the more you lean into the discomfort and embrace the negative circumstance, the less pain you will feel.

Acceptance to things that we can’t change can obliterate any and all emotional suffering.

Conversely, the bigger the wall you put up between yourself and your reality, the greater internal conflict you will feel.

Emotional suffering and turmoil are not mental states to make rational medical decisions.

This isn’t the frame of mind you want to be in and expect to win the fight.

What Acceptance Isn’t.

By no means does accepting your circumstance means that you’re being passive - that you’ve put your hands up and resign your life to fate and to luck.

It’s quite the opposite.

Acceptance about something that you cannot change AKA your cancer diagnosis, allows you to make a radical shift in thinking- from a “WHY ME” type of questioning to a “WHAT’S NEXT” type of mentality.

I had certainly asked those why me questions and it goes something like this.

“Why did I get cancer?

“Out of the billions of people in the world, why did I get cancer?”

“I’m only 29, why did I get cancer so young?”

This type of thinking and narrative that we ask the universe is adopting victim mentality. Victims are weak and passive. When it comes to cancer, I refuse to be a victim of bad luck or circumstance. So I stopped the why me questioning. Simple as that.

I fully accepted that I was a young woman diagnosed with breast cancer. I then reframed my line of thinking to:

Cancer is simply a set of physical and mental challenges that I have to get through.

If you commit to moving on from a victim mentality - then you’re in the right headspace to take on the challenges of beating cancer and you’ve built a strong foundation of inner strength that will set you up for the road ahead.

How to Take Charge and Build Unshakable Inner Strength After a Cancer Diagnosis

It’s natural when you’re first diagnosed to be on a huge emotional rollercoaster.

Waves of sadness, fear and uncertainty can overwhelm you.

For me, I couldn’t stop crying when my doctor told me. I had to break the news to my poor fiancé and told him we had to cancel the wedding. The first two weeks of my diagnosis probably ranked as Number 1 most awful moments of my life.

But when you’re diagnosed with early stage breast cancer, you’re often not in any pain or suffering, so flitting moments of denial can kick in.

Am I really sick? I sometimes forget. A painless lump is the only reminder that something sinister is growing inside me.

Being shocked at how my life has turned so unexpectedly was an understatement - during those first few days I had to pinch myself and shake my body back to reality.

The introduction of every article I read on google or pubmed would make my blood run cold - apparently I had an aggressive form of breast cancer.

For most cancers, the diagnosis process can take a while. An initial biopsy is then followed by numerous scans to detect any spread of rogue cells to other parts of the body.

I left my lab bench and work desk in a mess because I had left in the middle of the day to get my lump checked out by the doc. I didn’t go back to work till weeks after my diagnosis was complete.

My life had suddenly revolved around big scary scanning machines, hospitals and doctors visits and waiting rooms. I felt like a spectator, waiting for someone to tell me if the cancer has spread.

Suffice to say that waiting around drove me bonkers! I twiddled my thumbs in the waiting room, pretending to read and re-read that same article in Vogue. I felt envious of the smiling models as I mindlessly flicked through the pages.

Don’t they realise how bad this situation is?

If you’re anything like me, I was beside myself with worry, fear and anxiety.

However, it’s important to stop yourself from getting crazy anxious, try to control those panic attacks and distract yourself from worrying to death.

How?

I’m going to tell you how.

I want you to start fighting cancer FIRST with your mind and SECONDLY with your body.

I want you to start your cancer journey STRONG, and in the BEST MENTAL SPACE you possibly can.

Turning around a serious illness like cancer is no easy feat - you need the mental strength and resilience in order to get through it.

Cancer isn’t like a bad cold that you get over in two weeks. There’s going to be long periods of making hard decisions, gruelling treatment and recovery ahead, not to mention the emotional, financial and relationship struggles.

We’re talking about 6 months to a year for early stage cancers - even longer if you have advanced stage cancer.

Your life is going to be turned upside down, inside out and back to front.

Being resilient protects you from getting too overwhelmed by stress.

And one of the components of resilience is the belief that you have control over your life.

So being mentally tough is going to be a huge help for you and your wellbeing.

Think about it, your mind is your BIGGEST ally and cheerleader.

It’s your mind thats going to process the emotions.

It’s your mind that’s going to make the hard decisions.

It’s your mind that’s going to push you harder and not let yourself give up.

It’s your analytical mind that’s going to solve problems when there seems to be zero solutions.

If you’re able to have the right mindset to tackle this huge health problem, then you’re in for a smoother ride my friend.

You’ll be able to deal with what’s ahead of you with:

CLARITY and CERTAINTY.

Because if you feel more in control of your mind, then it can guide you into making decisions that’s right for you.

So you might be asking:

"Will thinking POSITIVE enough to get me through this? ”

Wishful thinking you’ll beat cancer isn’t enough.

You see, you may have limiting beliefs that are holding you back from fully recovering.

Do you believe that cancer is death sentence?

Answer this honestly.

What if you have a family history of cancer?

For example, if your mother and grandmother have lost their battle with breast cancer, how do you think you will approach your own cancer diagnosis?

You can only get so far with positive thinking.

You’ll have to change your beliefs and mindset completely.

It needs a huge overhaul because having those limiting beliefs can be a huge obstacle. Your mind won’t be focused on solutions and recovery and instead, you’ll look for evidence that supports the fact that cancer IS a death sentence.

Do you see how important your mindset is to your battle with cancer?

It’s not enough to think positive, you’ll need what experts call a GROWTH MINDSET - as opposed to a fixed mindset.

Having a growth mindset means you’re able to adapt, to try hard things and to keep learning.

Fortunately, our thoughts are malleable - our thoughts can change.

To encourage a change in mindset, there are two things you can do:

…. Firstly, observe your thoughts.

In order to change a fixed mindset, you first have to acknowledge it.

… Secondly, challenge your beliefs.

Ask yourself, is this really true? Or is this a limiting belief you have about X. This exercise is going to feel a little weird at first because what you believe is reality might not necessarily be reality for everyone.

We all have a lens through which we see the world - and our beliefs shape the way we understand the things that are going on around us.

To get you started, I wanted to share with you the 7 Crucial Mindset Shifts that I believe is the key foundational piece for building unshakable inner strength.

It’s the difference between those cancer patients who survive and those who thrive. You can download the free PDF guide HERE.

Remember, the way to limit fear is to take massive ACTION.