SATURDAY STRENGTH: The Importance of Exercise for Breast Cancer Survivors

I've found that Livestrong.com is a great resource for learning about breast cancer. You can find information about your diagnosis, treatment, and recovery... including the importance of exercise and eating right.

For the next few weeks, on Saturdays, I'm going to share some of the information I've read on Livestrong.com, about exercise.

I know, as a breast cancer patient/survivor, that you might not have the strength, energy, or willpower to exercise. I know, because I'm a survivor - been there, done that. I had a very hard time even finding the energy to get out of bed sometimes. Exhaustion, depression, and pain all played a big part in keeping me from exercising. I knew, at the time, that exercising would make my recovery from treatments easier, but knowing and doing are two completely different things.

Because I know what it's like to be a survivor, I'm just going to share some information with you - some things I think will make your life a little bit easier. And you can take it from there.

The fact is: regular exercise may boost your energy levels, and your self esteem! The article on Livestrong.com, written by Stephanie Berger, explains some of the benefits of exercise: "...exercise increases blood flow to the body and brain and can combat symptoms of stress, depression and anxiety in breast cancer survivors. Exercising empowers women, giving them a sense of control over their health. Increased fitness decreases that risk of breast cancer recurrence. Exercising helps women control their weight, which can reduce their risk of relapse."

I think that's some pretty great motivation for taking time to exercise. So, start out slowly. Talk to your doctor first. Make sure he/she approves your plan. Be careful if you've just had surgery - take care to not overdue. You'll know when enough is enough. The great thing about exercise is that it just gets easier the more you do it!

If you are just starting out, just for this week, try to do a few stretching exercises. And go for a walk 3-4 times during the week. You can increase the time as you become stronger.

If you exercise regularly already, try to increase the amount little by little this week.

Good luck! You are a strong, beautiful, capable survivor... You deserve to treat yourself well.

-Kara