L-W-O Community supports primary and secondary lymphoedema by promoting emotional wellness, lymphatic health, self-care, patient empowerment, online and in the community.
Wellbeing
This website has lots of tips and advice of on how to take care of your lymphoedema, from compression, skincare, movement, healthy eating, hydration but what about our emotional wellbeing.
Do any of us give enough time to care for ourselves? Do we take the time to connect with nature, or be mindful of ourselves?
Do we know when to relax? Do we understand the value of social interaction? We are all different, we all have different needs but do find time for yourself. Be kind to yourself.
Connect with Nature
Wherever possible spend time outdoors. Think about the things you can hear, smell, taste or touch. Listen to the birds singing or watch the movement of the clouds or listen to the trees rustling.
On the days when you can't get outdoors, sit by an window with a cup of your favourite beverage and watch the world go by.
Bring nature indoors with houseplants that you can care for.
Mindfulness
Mindfulness is about managing day to day wellbeing,
being in the moment with yourself, being self-aware. Find a place where you can be quiet or still, take time to reflect. Use the time to de-stress and become calm you are special, and you owe it to yourself to find time to be kinder to yourself. Why not try some deep breathing exercises, tai chi, or yoga.
Relaxation
Finding time to relax is essential for your wellbeing and lymphatic health, we know that stress is not good for lymphoedema. Find a quiet space, try some deep breathing exercises, read a book, listen to your favourite music or try stargazing. Switch off your phone or computer so that you are not distracted.
Connect with Others
Stay in touch with family, friends, or work colleagues.
Speak to someone every day, whether that is by phone, messaging services or in person. Isolation is not good for your lymphatic health and may create further anxiety, depression, and loneliness.
Join a club or group, take up a new hobby or even a shopping trip with friends.
Have a meal at your favourite cafe, pub, or restaurant. Call a friend, go to the coffee shop together. Spend time with the people you want to spend time with.
Play the video for tips and advice
You have being diagnosed with lymphoedema, why not join L-W-O Community our online support group gives you a friendly place to chat to others who also live with lymphoedema. Our members have a wealth of knowledge and experience, a safe place where you will not be judged and if we don't have the answers to your questions we can signpost you to organisations that can help. We are all different, we all have different needs we are here to empower you to find your own answers so that you can manage lymphoedema in the best possible way for you. Do not let your lymphoedema define who you are.