Let’s get real: Meditation sounds lovely in theory. You picture yourself on a mountaintop, hands gently resting on your knees, mind as calm as a still lake.
Meanwhile, your actual brain is ping-ponging through grocery lists, Netflix plots, and whether you remembered to pay that bill.
If you’re living with cancer (or any major life upheaval), everyone and their well-meaning cousin will tell you to meditate. I get it — I’ve been living with metastatic breast cancer since 2014.
And yes, I know meditation is supposed to help. But sitting still and silencing the mind? Easier said than done.
During a podcast chat with Ann Fonfa (a fierce advocate for natural cancer therapies), she mentioned meditation… and then admitted she doesn’t actually do it herself. Preach, Ann.
I want to meditate. I try to meditate. But my mind is a professional overthinker.
My friend Melissa Moog, who survived a stroke around the time I was diagnosed, swears by meditation. She found true healing and presence in it.
Me? I’m more of a “meditate-while-folding-laundry” type.
But here’s the good news: Meditation doesn’t have to look like a 90-minute silent retreat. It can be as simple as breathing in and out with intention, using a few words to anchor you in the moment.
The two “non-meditations” I actually use
I learned both of these from my first yoga instructor, Lisa, well-over a decade ago. They carried me through radiation therapy — and they still help me ride out scanxiety and restless nights.
1️⃣ The Loving-Kindness Blessing (Metta)
May I be filled with loving kindness.
May I be well.
May I be peaceful and at ease.
May I be happy.May you be filled with loving kindness.
May you be well.
May you be peaceful and at ease.
May you be happy.May we be filled with loving kindness.
May we be well.
May we be peaceful and at ease.
May we be happy.That which is divine in me, celebrates that which is divine in you.
If you’re feeling extra generous (or, let’s be honest, extra annoyed), send that blessing to someone else. Even that rude driver or that doctor who kept you waiting an hour. It’s surprisingly freeing.
2️⃣ The Thich Nhat Hanh “Smile” Breath
Breathing in, I calm my body.
Breathing out, I smile.
Dwelling in the present moment,
I know this is a wonderful moment.
Simple. Soothing. It reminds you that even in chaos, there is a tiny corner of calm available.
You don’t have to “do” meditation perfectly
If, like me, you can’t (or won’t) sit in lotus for 45 minutes, that’s okay. These two mini-practices can help you breathe in calm, breathe out fear, and find a moment of presence.
Because no matter what’s happening — a scan, a treatment, or just an ordinary Tuesday — this moment is the one you’ve got.
Want more resources for navigating life with courage (and a healthy dose of humor)?
- Follow my breast cancer journey
- Check out the Gratitude Geek Podcast
- Get Paid to Be Nice Sending Cards & Gifts
Stay Groovy!
Disclaimer: I am not a doctor. Please consult your medical team before trying anything new, especially if you’re in treatment.
If you’re looking for more ways to support yourself through this — including keeping your business and your sanity intact — read my full guide on building emotional resilience during breast cancer.
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