We all need a break, and even if your cancer can’t take a holiday, you deserve to step away from the day-to-day cancer focus. No matter where you are in your cancer journey, it can sometimes feel like a full-time job. So, it’s important to plan things to remind you that you’re so much more than your cancer.

Lots of factors will determine the kind of break you’re able to take. But with a little creativity, you can invite some rest and adventure into your life! Here are a few ideas to inspire you to take a breather:

• Stay-cation: If it’s impossible to get out of town, staycations can be effective if you use your imagination. The most important thing to do is plan ahead and not cancel on yourself. Even though you’re still in your home with reminders of your present reality, this is your time to enjoy a different perspective. The key is to invite something new into your life in a relaxed way. If you feel up to it, you could visit an in-town attraction you’ve never seen before. Or if you feel like staying in, order take-out from a restaurant you’ve never tried or cook a new recipe. If you’re a reader, watch a movie. If you’re a movie-buff, try reading a novel instead. Write someone a note or journal. Paint your nails and do a facemask. Take a deep-dive into an historical event or person on the internet. Put on an outfit you haven’t had a reason to wear but love. Find a comfy spot outdoors and relax while you listen to your For the Girls pink wind chime (50% of proceeds go to breast cancer research!) While staycations are the most accessible option for a vacation, it requires creativity and commitment. And there’s no shame in telling people you’ll be “on vacation”!

• Close-cation: Traveling on planes can present some risks and issues for people with cancer, but there are always places to explore within driving distance! This may also be a good option for those on strict cancer treatment schedules who can’t take off an entire week. Book a night in a hotel with a spa in a nearby city, or rent a cottage a few hours outside of town in the mountains or by the beach. Listen to your needs and ask yourself if this should be a solo trip or if inviting an encouraging friend or partner to come along is more rejuvenating. Getting away but keeping close may be the easiest way to accomplish a restful and energizing vacation while taking a break from your focus on cancer.

• Dream-cation: If you’ve reached a good resting point in your cancer treatment and are able to fly, let your wings soar and don’t put off your dream vacation any longer! Always wanted to experience Yellowstone? Go! Always wanted to dip your toe in the Amalfi Coast? Go! Or rather, volare! Life is precious and everyone deserves something to look forward to, and most of all, you deserve celebrating your resiliency. We know your dream trip may not be feasible, but if the only thing that’s stopping you is your mindset, then change it! Because you’re worth it. Here are some helpful travel tips for people with cancer.

Even if cancer lingers, you’re allowed to go on holiday. Whether physically or emotionally/mentally, it’s important to step away from your focus on cancer, even if just for an afternoon. Don’t let it consume your spirit. And no matter how you choose to “vacate,” do something that inspires YOUR wildly unique and precious soul! Bon voyage!