“You’ve fininshed treatment– you can get on with your life now.”

So many people hear this line at the end of active cancer treatment. For some, it brings relief. For others, it sparks confusion, frar, or even giref.

You are no longer in hospital. But you are not back to your old self either. You might fee left behind– physically, emotionally or both.

This space– the “after”– can be one of the hardest parts of the canc er journey. And you deserve support here, too.

Self-care after cancer: More than bubble baths and positive thinking

Post-treatment self-care is not about luxury– it’s about healing, listening, and reconnecting.

It might look something like this:

   • 1) Listening to your body and responding with kindness– Your body has done a lot for you! It’s OK if it moves differently now. It’s OK if it needs more rest. Self-care means noticing what your body needs– not pushing through, but working with it.

   • 2) Hands-on support for healing– Scar therapy, lymphatic drainage and gentle bodywork can support your body’s physical recovery– easing discomfort, reducing swelling, and improving mobility. But more than that, they can help you reconnect with your body in a safe supportive way.

A little hint – look through the cancer pack you were given or as a carer look through it. There are often tips and also resources for help. Counselling, massage, finances. Also look at notices in waiting rooms and make a note of contacts that might prove useful in the future.

.  • 3) Movement that builds confidence, not pressure– You do not have to hit the gym. You don’t have to go back to normal. You can start with gentle breathing, stretching, gently rebuilding strength. Movement is medicine, especially when it is respectful and restorative.

A review in the British Journal of Sports Medicine confirms that gentle exercise can improve quality of life, reduce fatigue and support mental wellbeing after cancer.

.  • 4) Finding your voice again– You have been through a life altering experience. It’s OK if your needs, boundaries and goals have changed. Self-care is also about speaking up– for rest, for space, for support.

   • 5) Being with people who understand– Community matters. Whether it’s a supportive group, a recovery class, or one-to-one guidance, being in spaces where you don’t have to explain can be deeply healing.

Clacton: 5K Your Way Move Against Cancer – clactonseafrontgroup@5kyourway.org – we meet once a move for a walk, chat or just to catch up for coffee and a chat

Harwich: Harwich cancer support group – Kelly 07585 559761 – we meet every Wednesday from 10-12 at The Royal Oak – 5K Your Way Move Against Cancer – Harwich group meet at Cliff Park Pavilion on last Saturday of each month

Frinton: Breast Cancer Group – Meet the First Thursday of each month at Oasis Cafe – Anne 07874 064379 – Touched by Cancer coffee and cake meet on a Monday at McGriggor Hall – the.coffeedownload@gmail.com

You are not meant to “snap back”

You are not behind. You are not failing. You are navigating life after cancer with all the wisdom and weariness it brings.

You deserve support– not just to survive, but to heal, reconnect and thrive.

If you are looking for expert support you can join my cancer recovery programme designed especially for people like you– combining safe movement, scar and lymphatic therapy, breathing, self-care and confidence rebuilding.

Book your free discovery call fi@therapyinmotion.co