Breast Cancer Body Awareness

Before I was diagnosed with breast cancer, I had so many body parts that I just wanted to cover up, camouflage, or change. I often treated my breasts, not to mention the rest of me, with disdain. Looking in the mirror was not pleasant, unless I turned this way or that, sucked in, or pulled up. But after my diagnosis, I found a new appreciation for my body. Somehow, having breast cancer gave me the freedom to ease up, loose skin and gravity be damned. Underwire bras became less important, and I stopped caring if my nipples poked through, or if I inadvertently flashed a side boob. I had breasts and they were precious.

Post-lumpectomy, I cried for weeks in gratitude, even as my left breast settled in like a misshapen lump of clay. But she was still here and it was all I could do but treat her with compassion and tenderness. Touching and looking and loving became a daily practice, one that continuously reminds me to be grateful for my body, every single day. These days, I choose to move into life with grace and kindness, not only towards my breasts, but towards my belly, my thighs, my ass, my arms, my skin, and all the bits and pieces that are not quite the way I would've hoped they would be at 60 years old. But they are all here, and I am here. Despite all of its rippled flesh and saggy skin, scars and divots, my body is beautiful, unique, and inspiring in all it's been through and all it can do.
And so is yours.

Photo by Michal Minster-Tal

All of my classes and offerings for cancer wellness are free - click here to access them all, and please share with anyone that may benefit from a little self-love, especially during times of pain.  Click on World of Pink and The Tutu Project for more blogs about breast cancer healing.