Yoga is a popular form of exercise that uses breathing and physical poses which are designed to unify, purify and strengthen the mind, body and spirit. Several recent studies show positive benefits for individuals who participate in exercise programs such as yoga, during their cancer treatment. Two studies published recently in the Journal of Clinical Oncology showed important benefits from exercise (aerobic, resistance, or yoga) for breast cancer survivors, including improved quality of life, self-esteem, mood, fitness, and body composition.
In a separate study with 61 women receiving radiation treatment for breast cancer, half attended biweekly yoga classes that included stretching, breathing exercises and other yoga techniques. The researchers found the women in the yoga classes experienced an overall better quality of life. This study’s lead author, Lorenzo Cohen, PhD, Associate Professor and Director of the Integrative Medicine Program at the University of Texas, Anderson Cancer Center, stated “This is the first study to incorporate yoga as part of the treatment plan for patients. Because yoga deals with mind and body, we thought that cancer patients would benefit both physically and emotionally and we found that to be the case.”
Restorative Yoga is a form of yoga which offers a gentle practice meant to restore and refresh. All aspects are designed to enhance peacefulness and tranquility, focusing on restful poses that renew and heal. Some health benefits include improved posture, relief from back pain, fatigue, insomnia headaches, and a greater sense of calm. Gentle Yoga classes focus on conscious quality breathing, deep relaxation – the art of letting go of stress, gentle postures for health maintenance and restoration. This provides for connection to one’s inner strength, peace of mind and discipline of balance/inner stillness which achieves better health and an improved immune system.
At weSPARK Cancer Support Center, we are dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for cancer patients, their families, and friends. We offer a variety of support groups, as well as healing programs, including guided imagery and yoga. All services are free of charge. We recommend you check with your health care provider before participating in any exercise program. If you’re interested in any of our services, please contact Lori Crawford, LCSW at 661-288-2322 to arrange an intake.