Yoga provides a gentle, helping hand in the fight against cancer

As a breast cancer survivor (two years healthy now, thank you!), I know what a drain the treatments and the mental fatigue of fighting the disease can be.

There are often times when you find it difficult just to find the energy to perform even the simplest daily tasks.   I know I have espoused many good reasons to incorporate yoga and meditation into your life in this blog. But if you, a friend or a loved one is stricken with this horrible disease,  I can think of no better reason to work it into your wellness routine.

It’s really very simple. In addition to the many other difficult issues you’ll face with cancer, it’s a disease that places a tremendous burden on your sense of well-being, and in countless ways can make you feel weak and fatigued when what you really need is to rally your spirit and inner-strength.

For a healthy individual, yoga offers pathways for deepening the ability to meditate, relax, access positive imagery for healing and breathe more effectively.  For a person who is battling cancer, these tools are invaluable–even priceless, especially during a health crisis, when the mind-body connection is so important to maintain.

One of the most healing aspects of yoga and meditation is so pure and simple–the ability to quiet oneself and be mindful–the ability to induce your body and mind to be silent.  It is during these moments of relaxation and silence that healing can begin to occur. Your body and mind can rest.  And the feelings of fatigue and utter exhaustion one often endures during the course of treatment, not to mention the sheer worry and anxiety that can become acute if not managed, can be lessened and relieved. 

Another important reason to work yoga and meditation into your wellness routine when fighting cancer is because these activities are not nearly as taxing as many other forms of exercise.  It is possible to meditate and do some simple yoga stretches and breathing exercises when you’re battling cancer.  Depending upon how you feel and where you are at with your course of treatment, other forms of exercise are not always as accessible to you, the patient.    

We know yoga can lead you to living a more mindful, connected life.  When the universe places cancer in your path, you have no choice but to look to the positive.  Access Prana–the life and healing energy of yoga.  Be mindful, relax your spirit and open a path to healing today.

Find Peace and Be Well.