February is the month of love! As we celebrate Valentine’s Day and show those who are special to us how much we love them, why not do the same for yourself? As a breast cancer patient, you’ve been through diagnosis, surgery, treatment and possibly reconstruction and, of course, all the emotional ups and downs that have gone with it. This month, make sure you take some time to love and pamper yourself because you deserve it! Love Your Bod With breast cancer comes scars, hair loss, weight fluctuations and other changes to your body. Sometimes they are hard to accept, so the best way to start off a month about loving yourself is by loving your body and how it looks now. Yes, it’s changed, but it is hard at work fighting a disease, so be more confident about how beautiful you look. Maintain your beauty routine if it makes you feel good, accept compliments and wear clothes and hats that make you look and feel better. IndulgeThis month, millions of Americans will buy heart-shaped boxes of chocolates and indulge on rich desserts. It’s OK for you to indulge, too. If that occasional decadent dessert, piece of chocolate or dinner out makes you feel better, enjoy it! Go OutsideIn some parts of the country, it’s too chilly to take a walk, but if you can get outside for a bit, go for a walk. Many cancer patients stay inside during treatment and recovery and can suffer from winter blues. Going outside for some fresh hair and daylight can help your body to fight depression, sleep better and feel better. Even 15 minutes can make a difference. RelaxSometimes loving yourself means shutting out the world and enjoying your version of relaxation. Maybe it’s putting on your favorite music or romantic comedy movie. Perhaps it’s a long hot soak in a tub, reading a New York Times best-selling novel or filling in their crossword puzzle. Whatever it is, take time to do it. Your body and mind will appreciate it. Pamper YourselfLoving your bod, indulging and relaxation are all ways of pampering yourself, but if you need a few more ideas, how about a day at the spa? Buy that dress you always wanted or, depending on how you feel, take a quick weekend getaway from the hustle and bustle of tests and doctor appointments. Breast reconstruction after mastectomy has been proven to help women feel better emotionally and physically. If you’ve recently gone through breast reconstructive surgery, loving yourself will help you to feel better about your breast cancer journey and how you look and feel. Also, talking to others who have gone through the process before you will also help. Buddha once said, “You yourself, as much as anybody in the entire universe, deserve your love and affection.” The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction believes in good health for everyone, regardless of the season. If you or someone you know is in need of breast reconstruction, contact them at NaturalBreastReconstruction.com or toll-free at (866) 374-2627.