Using Yoga to Ease the Side Effects of Cancer Treatment

 A psychologist recently released a study showing that women who practiced Yoga combated some of the side effects of cancer treatment. Even working a small Yoga program each day contributed to the sense of well being of the women involved.

The study followed 61 women who were undergoing surgery and treatment for breast cancer. Half of the group attended yoga classes two times a week and the other did not. A rating scale was prepared to rate questionnaires given to all 61 women. Their answers were then placed on the rating score. Scoring went from 0-100. They were asked about other activities in their life, their physical abilities, fatigue, and other aspects of their lives that were affected by the cancer treatment.

Those women who were attending yoga classes twice a week, consistently scored higher in all areas of scoring. For those who practiced yoga, improvement in physical activity was different. The non-yoga patients scored lower in physical function. Yoga participants scored higher in feelings of fatigue and had fewer problems with sleeping.

The report did not show a difference in the two groups about depression and anxiety. This six-week study gave the yoga group a higher score for their over-all quality of life. Although studies do report that those that practice yoga routines are less prone to depression and anxiety.

Yoga combines physical movements, mediation, stretching, relaxation, and imagery. Yoga does reduce stress and anxiety and promotes calmness. Controlled breathing, another part of the yoga practice helps control pain and gives the cells in your body the important oxygen that helps fuel them. Meditation combined with controlled breathing helps you to focus on what is going on in your body and helps rid the mind of outside distractions. Yoga classes are told to focus on the breathing and let everything else go. The stillness of your mind increases your body awareness. Yoga students find it difficult to think about other distractions while focusing on breathing correctly.

Women who were in the yoga class reported more flexibility and better sleep habits. The stretches in yoga are not strenuous and can be adapted to the individual’s capacity. Meditation helps you focus on what is going on at the moment and helps block out all other distractions. The stretching and movements are subtle and there are easy routines to help beginners get started with yoga practice.

One woman who took part in the group who took yoga classes reports she felt better, had more flexibility than her doctor had predicted, and in a shorter time. She reports that yoga forced her to focus on her breathing and keeping other distractions out of her mind.

Further studies are planned with a group of women who will take yoga classes, and a group who will be taught stretching exercises. The result of this study will not be learned for several years. Before beginning any new exercise routine, contact your doctor for guidelines about your limits.