The Beauty Secrets of Stress Relief

By Dave Balch Blogger

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Photo: Getty Images

Needless to say, it was a stressful time when my wife was diagnosed with breast cancer. The stress continued through her nine months of treatment and then during the three recurrences as well.

Now it’s been 10 years since her diagnosis and the specter of another recurrence always looms overhead.

As her caregiver, I deal with it in many different ways, but what I want to share with you is one of the ways in which she deals with it. Two words: “manicure” and “pedicure”.

Many people are surprised that something as mundane as fingernails and toenails are so important during such a tumultuous time in her life.

“Don’t you have more important things to worry about?” they ask.

Well, yes and no.

I’m not suggesting that she postpone her chemo infusion to get her nails done. The priorities here are obvious. I am suggesting, however, that she postpone her manicure to get her chemo infusion.

The key here is to “postpone,” not to “cancel.” Why? Because when her nails look nice she feels good about herself, and that’s what’s important.

When you are going through tough times you simply must do whatever you can to feel good about yourself. It doesn’t have to be about your nails, although if having nice nails does it for you, fine. Get a manicure.

If working out or riding your bicycle does it then you should do those things instead. All that matters is what floats your own boat, and it doesn’t matter whether others agree with you or not.

Recognize what will feel good to you, and then make sure that you do it. Give yourself permission ... you deserve it!

It’s like creating a little oasis for yourself in the desert of your stress.

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Edited by Jessica Obert

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We value and respect our HERWriters' experiences, but everyone is different. Many of our writers are speaking from personal experience, and what's worked for them may not work for you. Their articles are not a substitute for medical advice, although we hope you can gain knowledge from their insight.