Dear Iris: Dog Walks and Park Days—Still Possible?
Dear Iris,
I’ve always loved being outside—going on a long walk with my dog, yoga in the park with friends—but since starting treatment, I’m not sure what’s still safe for me to do. I don’t want to overdo it, but I also don’t want to feel stuck indoors all summer.
Are there outdoor activities that are okay while I’m in treatment?
T
Dear T,
Absolutely—gentle movement and fresh air can do wonders, as long as you listen to your body. Many people in treatment find comfort in simple outdoor activities like walking, gardening, or just relaxing in the shade with a good book.
Stick with low-key activities that don’t leave you feeling wiped out. And be sure to stay hydrated. Staying well hydrated during cancer treatment is extremely important, for both your ability to tolerate treatment and quality of life (read more here about hydration during treatment).
As always check in with your care team about what’s safe for you, especially as your energy and treatment plan change.
Pace yourself—you’re doing enough.
Stephanie Meyers, MS, RD, LDN
Senior Registered Dietitian and Licensed Nutritionist
Iris Oncology
Stephanie Meyers is a Senior Registered Dietitian and Nutritionist at Iris Oncology with 25 years of experience delivering compassionate and evidence-based nutrition care to those affected by cancer. She’s the former Nutrition Manager at The Zakim Center for Integrative Therapies and Healthy Living at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston and presents seminars worldwide on mindful eating, family nutrition, and cancer survivorship. Stephanie is also the author of, End the Mealtime Meltdown: Using The Table Talk Method to Free Your Family From Daily Food Struggles and Picky Eating and the founder of Families Eating Well, a nutrition practice helping parents coach healthy eating skills in kids.
This article meets Iris standards for medical accuracy. It has been fact-checked by the Iris Clinical Editorial Board, our team of oncology experts who ensure that the content is evidence based and up to date. The Iris Clinical Editorial Board includes board-certified oncologists and pharmacists, psychologists, advanced practice providers, licensed clinical social workers, oncology-certified nurses, and dietitians.
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