This post was submitted by Mr. David Haas with the Mesothelioma Cancer Alliance, he requested that I share it on my blog and I think it’s worth a read.
Yoga- A Good Fitness Choice for Cancer Patients
Most people regard yoga as a form of healthy physical activity. However, yoga is more than mere exercise; it is both a practice and a philosophy. Originating in ancient India, yoga requires physical, mental and spiritual discipline. It is usually associated with the meditative rituals of Hinduism, Buddhism and other eastern religions.
Commonly practiced around the world for centuries, yoga is growing in popularity across the United States. It has numerous health benefits, not only for healthy individuals but for those battling cancer. Some doctors and fitness trainers consider yoga ideal for people going through aggressive cancer treatments or entering cancer recovery programs.
A Good Cancer Fitness Choice
Yoga is an excellent low-impact activity for patients in all stages of cancer. It is gentle on the body and beneficial for the mind. In fact, yoga is at the cutting-edge of mental health. It relieves emotional and physical stress, provides mental clarity and promotes general well-being. All of these things work together to help patients win their battle with cancer.
Patients going through conventional treatments can use yoga to increase energy and combat fatigue and other treatment side effects. For those battling difficult cancers like mesothelioma or pancreatic cancer, yoga is a wonderful palliative treatment.
Many patients find it hard to endure treatments for mesothelioma and other advanced illnesses, and vigorous exercise is usually out of the question. Gentle stretches in bed may be all they can handle at first. When they are ready to move beyond stretching or short walks down the hall, yoga is a good fitness choice.
What is Yoga?
Many cancer treatment programs integrate yoga regimens with traditional therapies like surgery, radiation, chemotherapy and hormone therapy. Yoga is a form of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) therapy, a holistic practice.
According to Cancer Treatment Centers of America, numerous findings suggest that yoga improves life quality issues for survivors of breast cancer and other diseases. While it cannot cure cancer, yoga is beneficial for those enduring pain or discomfort. Less pain means a better life, with more time for loved ones, things and experiences.
Yoga emphasizes certain physical postures and positions. As a result, people often regard the practice as exercise. However, the term “yoga” literally means “union.” Both the practice and philosophy of yoga seek to create oneness by uniting the body, mind and spirit.
Yoga’s Value for Cancer Patients
Due to yoga emphasizes fitness as well as self-reflection, it can be quite valuable for patients who face treatments for mesothelioma, breast cancer, skin malignancies and other tumors. Physical and mental health is essential for fighting cancer, and yoga helps patients maintain a healthy body and mind.
Like other alternative therapies, the type and intensity of yoga vary from person to person. Patients who choose to incorporate yoga into their cancer fitness programs should talk to their doctor first. Yoga requires fairly good physical health to begin with, so patients should verify their health status with their doctor. Upon approval, patients should search for a qualified yoga instructor in their area. Instructors can show patients the proper techniques for the most benefits.