Staying Cancer-free
After being healed from stage 4 breast cancer in 2011, I knew that taking care of my overall well-being was essential to staying cancer-free. This journey has involved not only physical care but also mental and spiritual nurturing. Many people ask what I do to maintain my health, so I’d like to share the daily practices that have been pivotal in my continued wellness.
My Nutritional Approach:
I follow an intermittent fasting routine, where I fast until noon and then enjoy five to six mini meals throughout the day. Each meal is carefully balanced to nourish my body, with an Essante Organics vanilla protein shake being if I skip a meal.
Over the years, many of my clients have confided in me about their supplement routines—sometimes taking 20 to 50 pills a day. I went through that myself for a few years, up until 2014, and I know firsthand how exhausting and fear-driven that routine can be. The constant worry about not wanting to face cancer again led me to reluctantly follow this regimen. I completely empathize with the stress and burden it can place on one’s life.
Now, I’ve found a gentler, healthier, and more compassionate approach. I prefer to get my nutrients from Essanté Organics products, which allow me to simplify my supplement routine while still ensuring my body receives everything it needs. This shift has brought me a sense of peace and confidence in my daily care, replacing fear with a routine that truly nurtures my well-being. The vitamins and minerals I need are primarily found in the following Essanté Organics products:
7.365 pH Protein Shake Vanilla (only If I am not hungry and skip a meal)
In addition to Essanté Organics products, I take:
1- Liposomal Vitamin C 1000 mg daily
1- NAC (N-Acetyl Cysteine) detox chlorine after swimming
1-Melatonin bedtime
1-Hormone Replacement- BioTe every four months (Labs are always done first)
These supplements work together to support my immune system, reduce inflammation, and promote overall cellular health.
The Connection of Telomeres to Gratitude and Self-Compassion:
A dear friend and fellow breast cancer survivor shared with me the science behind how self-compassion and gratitude impact our telomeres. She told me that learning this reminded her of me and my coaching style, which deeply touched my heart. As someone who has always practiced gratitude and self-compassion, and as a life coach who emphasizes these principles, this knowledge resonated deeply with me.
Telomeres are the protective caps at the ends of our DNA strands, playing a crucial role in cellular aging and overall health. Research has shown that shorter telomeres are associated with aging and increased risk of disease, while longer telomeres are linked to better health and longevity.
When we practice gratitude, we shift our focus from stress and negativity to appreciation and positivity, which can reduce stress hormones and inflammation—both of which are known to shorten telomeres. Similarly, self-compassion helps us to manage difficult emotions and experiences with kindness rather than self-criticism, which can also lower stress levels and promote healthier telomeres.
By incorporating daily gratitude and self-compassion into my life, along with fostering a closer relationship with God, I not only nurture my emotional well-being but also support my physical health at the cellular level. These practices help me maintain a sense of peace and resilience, which is vital in staying cancer-free and living a healthy life.
If you're seeking to cultivate these qualities in your own life, I invite you to explore my Journey of the Heart Coaching for Women program. Through this coaching, we focus on developing gratitude, self-compassion, and a deeper spiritual connection, empowering you to navigate life's challenges with grace and strength. It's a beautiful reminder of how deeply connected our emotional and physical health truly are, and how embracing these practices can transform your life.
Spiritual Wellness:
After going through stage 4 cancer and experiencing healing in 2011, I knew I had a responsibility to care for my overall well-being—physical, mental, and spiritual. Building a stronger connection with the Lord has been a comforting and guiding force in my life. Spending more time with God allowed me to see and accept my true identity from my Creator, providing me with the strength and peace needed to stay well.
Creating Healthy Boundaries:
Creating healthy boundaries has been empowering for me. Recognizing the need to set and enforce limits protects my self-esteem, maintains my self-respect, and allows me to enjoy healthy relationships. Unhealthy boundaries can lead to emotional pain, dependency, depression, anxiety, and even stress-induced physical illness, so it’s vital to be mindful of them.
Physical Activity:
Swimming is a vital part of my routine, and my husband and I swim four to five days a week. This not only helps keep me physically fit but also plays an essential role in moving lymphatic fluid, especially since I had lymph nodes removed. Swimming is a gentle yet effective way to keep my body active and support my overall health.
Mental and Spiritual Wellness:
Alongside physical health, I place great emphasis on my mental and spiritual wellness. I practice daily gratitude and self-compassion, which have been key to my emotional healing. Journaling is an integral part of my routine—I keep one journal for expressing gratitude and another for reflecting on my daily thoughts and feelings. These practices help me stay grounded and connected to the positive aspects of life.
Spending time in prayer and engaging in daily devotionals with my husband brings me peace and strengthens my relationship with God. This spiritual connection is a comforting anchor in my life, guiding me through each day with a sense of purpose and gratitude.
Evening Routine:
In the evenings, I’ve developed a relaxing nighttime routine to wind down a couple of hours before bed. My husband and I often swim, play cards, and listen to 432 Hz music, known for its calming effects and ability to relieve anxiety. We turn off the TV, except for occasionally playing some soothing SleepTube videos, and focus on calming activities that set a peaceful tone for the night. This routine helps us unwind and prepare for restful sleep, which is essential for overall health and well-being.
Thank you for taking the time to read my story and learn about the practices that keep me well. I hope you found something here that resonates with you and offers encouragement on your own path to health and wellness. To learn more about my cancer journey without chemotherapy please visit Shannon’s Story
If you are interested in my Journey of the Heart Coaching please feel free to reach out!
