How to Take Care of Yourself During Chemotherapy: Gentle Tips That Make a Difference

When you’re going through chemotherapy, it’s easy to feel like you’ve lost control of your routine, your energy, and even your identity. The truth is: treatment takes more than just a physical toll. It affects your entire wellbeing, in a way that probably never leaves, even after treatment is long over. You’re just a different person…but stronger and with a greater sense of perspective!

 

At Ulluv, due to our founder Siobhán’s own cancer diagnosis and treatment in 2019, we believe you deserve care, comfort, and compassion every step of the way. Whether you’re in the middle of treatment or just beginning, here are a few gentle tips to help you look after yourself.

 

 

 

1.Listen to Your Body (And Honour What It’s Saying)

 

Some days you’ll feel okay. Others, you won’t. Rest when you need to. Sleep when you can. Don’t feel guilty for cancelling plans or saying no. You’re doing something incredibly tough.

 

 

 

2.Keep a Small Bag of Comfort Items on Hand

 

Treatment days can be long and draining. Having a few carefully chosen essentials with you—like lip balm, hand cream, a soft blanket, tissues, mints (or whatever brings you some comfort) can make things feel that little bit easier.

Our Chemo Comfort Bags are designed with this in mind: thoughtfully packed with useful items that bring warmth, calm, and care in a time that often feels clinical.

 

 

 

3.Prioritise Emotional Rest Too

 

Chemo isn’t just hard on the body—it’s exhausting emotionally. Journal if that helps, talk to someone you trust, or just allow yourself quiet moments without pressure to “stay strong” all the time.

You don’t need to be brave every second of the day. You just need to be you.

 

 

 

4.Stay Connected—but on Your Terms

 

It’s okay to take a step back from social media, group chats, or even well-meaning friends. Let people know what you need—space, help, humour, silence. The right people will respect that.

 

 

5.Accept Help Without Guilt

Let others show up for you. Whether it’s meals, school runs, or someone simply dropping off a care package, receiving support isn’t a sign of weakness. And people will want to help because it can be a very useless feeling when a friend or family member gets sick.

 

 

 

The Small Things Really Do Matter

Whether it’s a blanket that makes hospital chairs more bearable, or lip balm that soothes cracked lips, these little acts of care add up.

👉Explore our own range of products that offer support and comfort during serious illness