Multi-skilled Naturopath Nadia Brydon talks about critical factors to address when dealing with a diagnosis of cancer.

Stress and fear are unwanted but pretty much inevitable companions to anyone dealing with cancer, and a multitude of resources may be needed to help manage them – physical strategies, mental and psychological approaches, and a connection to spiritual depth. Breadth of support is something that Nadia – with her enormous experience spanning three decades both of having cancer and of supporting thousands of others using naturopathy, herbalism and a raft of other specialised disciplines that she has trained in – strongly advocates for. She sees stress and fear as critical aspects to be addressed, partly because cancer itself brings them to the fore and their effects can lead to poor choices and poor outcomes, but also because, in most cases, they were always there, an unseen driver of a troubled life. The willingness to confront these forces can open a doorway, create an opportunity to transform the otherwise bleak landscape of cancer into the start of a completely new life that aligns with an individual’s values and purpose, a life ultimately free from existential fear and stress.

• Nadia Brydon, Cwmdu Retreat