No matter what your beliefs are ... or whether you belong to a religious faith ...
spiritual practices can help you find strength as you cope with cancer and face the unknown.
These can be simple, daily things ...
like thinking about what you're thankful for, having a good talk with a friend, or just stopping to take a deep breath.
Amanda: "I love being outdoors. There's a spiritual connection I feel around nature.
When I'm outside working ... or just taking a walk, it's calming.
My worries kind of drift away ... and I feel renewed."
Robert: "Prayer is a source of strength for me.
Sometimes I'll sit by myself in an empty chapel.
It's comforting ... it's a time to reflect.
I love listening to the music too. For me, it's a kind of prayer, a way to feel connected with God."
Tammy: "Being grateful for what I have ... and giving back.
That's a spiritual thing for me.
I work with an outreach program that helps local families ...
It's made a difference in my own life."
Spirituality is about connecting with what's meaningful to you.
Think about ways you may already be taking care of your spirit.
Are they helping? Are there parts of your life you could explore to feel more fulfilled?
There are things you can do to find a sense of inner peace, freedom from regret, and greater satisfaction with life.
If you're struggling, think about talking with a counselor, a chaplain, or a leader from your faith community for help with spiritual issues.
Amanda: "I don't always have the energy to get outside ...
so I also try to bring nature into my house."
Robert: "I like having a place to pray.
But it's something I can really do anywhere, anytime ...
There's something comforting and powerful in that."
Tammy: "Doing small things for people ... it does matter.
When I brighten a person's life ... I brighten my own life."
