Going through cancer treatment can be stressful for both your body and your mind. It is essential to take time to take care of yourself. Practicing yoga and meditation can help your body relax during a stressful time.
Yoga:
Yoga is an ancient practice that combines breathing, meditation, and poses. It can be beneficial for people coping with illness, especially cancer. Here are some benefits of yoga:
- Reduces Stress and Fatigue: Yoga allows you to relax and recharge.
- Improves Sleep: A calming routine can enhance your sleep quality.
- Increases Strength: Gentle movements help build strength without straining your body.
You can practice yoga in a studio or at home. Spending just 30 minutes a day to relax your body and mind can significantly impact your treatment. If traditional yoga classes are challenging, consider modified options like chair yoga.
Chair yoga is practiced while sitting in a chair. This makes yoga more accessible and still helps improve strength and flexibility. If you’re interested in chair yoga, many online videos can guide you, and some studios offer modified classes as well.
At Astera, Chair Yoga & Mindfulness classes are offered live via Zoom on the 3rd Friday of every month at 11:00 am.
Meditation:
Meditation can also help cancer patients in many of the same ways that yoga does. It can help reduce stress, improve mood, and boost the immune system. You can practice meditation on your own or while being guided.
Meditation can be practiced for a few minutes or hours at a time. It can help reduce stress in both the mind and body.
If you have questions about whether yoga and meditation are safe for you, talk to your doctor.