Many times a day, I focus on how I can best flourish in any situation.

If I am feeling icky, flourishing can look like drinking my water or taking an anti-nausea pill. It can also look like rest. Sometimes flourishing can be eating something or going outside for a bit of natural beauty.

If I am feeling well, flourishing can be connecting with a friend or loved one, working on a project, writing, doing chores, or puttering around the house. It can also be going for a walk in my neighborhood and being on the lookout for beauty.

It also is a big boost for me when I can leave our home and go out into the world and do something “normal” like going to the movies or a play, shopping, or having a meal out. My husband, dog, and I recently had a day of adventure at the beach where we walked along the shore, had lunch and did a little shopping. It was such good medicine for us all. I will hold that memory in my heart for a long time.

Daily, I focus on good feeling thoughts to aid my healing journey.

I see myself as whole, complete and healed instead of sick. I dream about the future and what things I will do when my energy returns.

One of the key factors in my healing journey is that I think and say that I received a diagnosis of pancreatic cancer instead of saying I have pancreatic cancer. It is a subtle difference, yet feels so much more like my truth. I believe I am learning so much during this journey with pancreatic cancer.

Another key factor in my healing journey is that I consider chemotherapy a conduit for miracles instead of poison invading my body. I am happy when I can have chemo as it is working to shrink my tumor. I welcome it.

Another key factor in my healing journey is meditation and visualizing myself as healed instead of sick. I believe that is playing a huge role in my healing journey. I also dream about what type of food or drink I will enjoy when I am feeling better. I think about the trips I will take, the sights I will see, the experiences I will have, which are all good medicine for my body, mind, and soul.

Rest is vital in my healing journey.

I take at least one nap a day, sometimes more. I listen to my body and tune in to what she needs. I am blessed that I am able to sleep well at night and usually get ten hours of sleep these days. What a gift! Your body repairs itself during periods of rest.

Another daily practice is my Epsom Salt bath, often combined with essential oils to help in my healing journey. Epsom salt helps rid your body of toxins. I love to use lavender essential oil as it is a wonderful sleep aid. I think of my bath as soothing, healing water. Such a nice visual and such a wonderful feeling to soak in the bath before bedtime. I think that is one of the reasons I sleep so well.