I’m now just under a year out from my final reconstructive surgery, and at my last check-in, Dr. Nelson said something simple but meaningful: Everything you’re doing is working. And that stayed with me. Because so much of this process isn’t about one big thing.
It’s about what you consistently choose. in small, quiet ways to support your body as it heals. This isn’t a prescription. It’s simply what supported me. Take what resonates.
Radiation doesn’t just affect the surface of the skin. It changes how the entire tissue moves. The skin and underlying fascia can become tighter, less elastic, and lose their natural ability to glide smoothly over muscle. With breast reconstruction, this can be felt even more, as radiation adds density and stiffness on top of existing scar tissue. Movements that once felt effortless, like reaching, opening the chest, or rotating, can feel restricted, like the body is stopping short or guarding. This isn’t because something is wrong, but because the body has shifted into a protective mode. Over time, with gentle, consistent movement and support, that tissue can begin to soften, regain mobility, and relearn how to move with more ease and fluidity.
Radiation Days
Radiation is its own experience. There’s the physical side. But there’s also the emotional rhythm of showing up every day, holding your body in place, and moving through something you didn’t choose.
Skin + Comfort Support
During this phase, comfort became everything.
- Calendula cream (radiation-safe, deeply soothing for skin)
- Brand: Boiron, Calendula Cream
- I put this on right after treatment and in the morning and evening during treatment and poset I do it every time I shower.
- Soft, breathable bras or no bra at all when possible
- Loose cotton clothing (I avoided synthetic fabrics completely)
- Drinking plenty of water and remaining hydrated
It wasn’t about aesthetics. It was about reducing friction physically and mentally.
Mental & Emotional Support
This part mattered just as much. Not in a structured, “do this every day” way. But in small anchors I could return to. Journaling or simple affirmations Guided meditation or breath work. Small daily rituals tea, short walks, repeating a mantra. Nothing elaborate. Just moments that brought me back to myself.
Post-Surgery Recovery (Ongoing)
Healing didn’t end when surgery was over. It shifted. Slowed. Deepened. Healing Support This phase became about nourishment and gentleness.
- Calendula cream (I continued using this consistently and I still use to this day)
Boiron, Calendula Cream - New bras I found what made sense for now (easier, more supportive, less strain)
- Nutrient-dense food to keep my energy steady and meat for protein not powder.
- Gentle teas: turmeric, ginger, chamomile, calendula (to help with inflammation)
RECOVERY | Repair + Restore, House Tea by Anima Mundi- I also brewed loose calendula flowers and drank as tea
What I learned in this phase was this:
Healing isn’t just about what you do. It’s about how supported your body feels while doing it.
What I Believe Now
There isn’t one perfect way to heal. There isn’t one routine that works for everyone. But you do want to support the systems and parts that we are taxing. Skin and tissue. Wound healing.
Note there is a difference between: Going through it and supporting yourself through it.
Small things. Done consistently.
I’ve incorporated Pilates, which has greatly improved my range of motion, along with monthly massages.
If You’re In This Right Now
If you’re in the middle of treatment or just coming out of it, you don’t have to do everything. You don’t have to get it perfect. Just start with: What would feel supportive today? And let that be enough.
