Here are four ways cancer patients can benefit from Yoga:

 

1. Yoga Helps Manage Depression, Fear and Anxiety: 
Depression and an acute fear of death can be prevalent in patients suffering through the emotional strain of a cancer diagnosis. Undergoing invasive or rigorous treatments may also heighten anxiety. Research has revealed that "Yogic breathing, defined as a manipulation of breath movement, has been shown to positively affect immune function, autonomic nervous system imbalances, and psychological or stress-related disorders."

Guided breathing exercises enrich the respiratory system to regulate nerves that can deeply calm both mind and body. Yoga activates this relaxation response and can thus help relieve feelings of anxiety. With the aid of supported inversions to increase circulation and guided meditation/deep breathing to let go of grief, fear, and foreboding, you can actually re-pattern and calm your stress cycles. 

 

2. The "Mood Boost" Effect: 
It's a fact -- exercise produces endorphins and endorphins improve your mood. A regular yoga practice, no matter how gentle the movements, allows the body to release endorphins so you can instantly experience a positive boost in mood.

Several studies also suggest that yoga can increase the level of gamma-aminobutyric acid, a neurotransmitter that plays a key role in regulating the nervous system and managing your mood and outlook. In addition, a regular yoga practice can boost self-esteem because you feel better about your appearance, strength, and overall physical condition.

 

3. Help to Manage Physical Pain: 
Beside the well known and painful physiological side effects of cancer treatment, emotional stress can also produce physical pain. Moderate, appropriately modified physical activity aids in managing the physical pain that can be experienced during treatment, and research has shown that women who practice yoga specifically when in recovery report reduced pain and stress.

Gentle guided movements, such as those outlined in this Everyday Health article, can help to expand range of motion, improve circulation, and relax muscle tension to speed up the recovery process.

 

4. Yoga Community Can Provide Support:
A support system is crucial to coping with the emotional toll of cancer, not only for those suffering from the disease but for their loved ones as well. There is great value in the support of community for those in any stage of remission, meeting and talking with others who understand what you're going through. Whether it's a group setting or an online meet-up, engaging with others in a similar situation can provide a sense of normalcy and security.

 

Even if you're not in treatment yourself but have a loved one who is suffering, yoga can serve as a way to help you both deal with your emotional stress. I can provide tailored classes for you within your own home. The calming effects of yoga provide a physically and emotionally beneficial activity you can do with each other, allowing you to connect on happy and positive terms.

 

I tailor all classes specific to the client with a focus on pranayama (breath work), and gentle restorative yoga.

I incorperate sound meditations with-in the practice. Sound healing is the practice of using audio tones and vibrational frequencies to repair damaged tissue and cells within the body. It works on the basis that all matter is vibrating at specific frequencies, and sickness, disease, depression and stress causes human beings to vibrate at a lower frequency. Playing tones that promote healing, happiness and vitality will allow DNA strands to repair themselves, and several scientific studies have been conducted on the potential healing benefits of audio sound frequencies.

 

Prices:

€50 for 1st Consultation (Approx 1.5-2hrs)

€40 per session thereafter (Approx 1.5 hours)

€35 if 3 sessions are booked

 €30 if 6+ sessions are booked

 

Please note:

 

•  All multiple sessions must be paid in full at time of booking

• Any cancellations are unfortunately non-refundable but can be rescheduled up to 2 times

• Sessions can include the client and one other person

• Groups can be catered for.