In October 2020, I was in the thick of chemo treatment.
I had finished AC and started Taxol, so you can say that my mind was elsewhere during this time. I would log onto Instagram and make my obligatory day of chemo posts with my updated letter board in hand…Breast Cancer Awareness Month didn’t phase me much as I was still pretty new to the community.
This year has been a different story.
By the evening of October 1st, I felt completely drained.
That night, I knew I needed to find a way to protect my peace in the sea of pink.
Here are some ways I have been protecting my peace:
1. Closeout IG
I closed out Instagram, went to my phone settings, and put a time limit on my daily use of Social Media. Social Media was just not serving my purpose. It has been wonderful for the community, but it has been a conduit for brands’ unsolicited BCAM content. So this month, I am limiting my social media intake.
2. Coloring/Painting/etc.
I am going to sound like the stereotypical cancer patient here, but, hear me out: I dusted the cobwebs off of my gifted coloring books and actually colored for a good 20 minutes. But, I must warn you: you will get bored fast, so use this tactic sparingly.
3. Hobbies, such as knitting or baking
During chemo, a high school acquaintance taught me how to knit. It was super random but also the sweetest and most thoughtful gesture! Ever since I have found joy in knitting. The end product is nice but I enjoy the process much more. I will get in my favorite PJs, grab my knitting needles and yarn, turn on Schitt’s Creek, and knit away! It keeps my hands busy and my mind clear.
4. Movement
Moving my body always makes me feel better when I am feeling anxious. Whether it is walking, indoor cycling, or even some light stretching, movement helps feed my soul!
5. At-home Spa
Yesterday, I lit my favorite candle, told Alexa to play spa music, and took a bath. I typically don’t like baths cause I feel like I am cooking in my own broth, so I decided to make my bath extra bubbly for my own amusement. In hindsight, perhaps I could’ve done a face mask at the same time
6. Movie marathon
If you are feeling super spooky, consider having a Halloween movie marathon with a loved one! I am a huge American Horror Story fan, so I have been indulging in the latest season. I also like to watch The Exorcist because a lot of the outdoor shots were done on my college’s campus 
One thing to keep in mind is that protecting one’s peace is going to look different for everyone!
What is important is that you find something that works for YOU.
And with that, I leave you with my favorite meditation:
Protect your peace, boo.
