Emotional Management for Liver Cancer Patients
Emotional Management for Liver Cancer Patients
The liver, known as the detoxification organ in the human body, has a saying in ancient China: "Emotions harm the five organs," and "anger harms the liver" is a part of it. Additionally, since the liver governs dispersion, an accumulation of liver qi can also harm the liver. Therefore, emotional management is an essential "course" for liver cancer patients.
1.Acupoint Massage
Massage the Taichong acupoint, also known as the "anger-relieving point." It is located between the big toe and the second toe, halfway up the dorsum of the foot. Use the thumb to apply firm pressure and knead the acupoints on both sides for 3-5 minutes each time.
Massage the Laogong acupoint, which belongs to the Pericardium Meridian of Hand Jueyin. It has a calming effect and can help relieve stress and fatigue. Massaging the palms can accelerate blood circulation.
2.Think Twice Before Getting Angry
Before getting angry, consider whether it's justified, contemplate the consequences of anger, and think about alternative methods. Giving oneself time to think makes it less likely to immediately lose control of negative emotions. Reading, listening to music, drinking tea or coffee, or taking a walk can help reduce stress levels.
3.Breathing Techniques
When feeling on the verge of anger, close your eyes, focus your mind, take a deep breath, count to "one" while inhaling, count to "two" while exhaling, and repeat. This practice helps discard distracting thoughts and improves concentration.
4.Outlet for Expression
Expressing confusing emotions to family, friends, or healthcare professionals can provide relief. For those who prefer not to talk about certain emotions, writing a journal can be a constructive outlet.
5.Change of Environment
If physical conditions permit, outdoor activities such as walking in parks, by the seaside, or in meadows can help divert thoughts from stressors and alleviate anxiety. Changing the home environment, such as adding indoor plants or using pleasant air fresheners, can also positively impact mood.
6.Empty Cup Mentality
Adopt an open-minded attitude toward adversities. Whether it's the challenges of liver cancer, financial difficulties, or treatment side effects, learn to let go and face life with equanimity. Life is like a cup; to hold more water, one must empty the cup. Emptying the cup of past successes or failures is necessary to embrace a new future.
7.Learn to be "Muddleheaded" About Small Matters
Overcalculating individuals often experience elevated heart rates, poor sleep, digestive system disruption, blood and qi imbalance, and reduced immunity. In contrast, adopting a "muddleheaded" attitude toward insignificant matters, letting go of minor annoyances, and choosing not to dwell on them is a sign of true magnanimity.
8.Cancer Support Groups
Cancer patients should actively seek support, express a willingness to participate in social activities, and engage in joyful interactions to foster a sense of belonging, security, and recognition. Communicating with fellow recovering patients, especially those in remission, can contribute to overall well-being.
