Hour 78 Yoga Therapy – Cancer Recovery and Revival
Yoga Therapy for Cancer Recovery
Introduction
Cancer is not just a bodily disease but a very emotional and psychological struggle. Patients receiving cancer treatment may suffer from intense tiredness, emotional upset, loss of muscle mass, insomnia, and compromised immunity. Yoga, being an integral system, can be used as an adjunct to complement the process of recovery—enhancing the level of living, alleviating treatment side effects, and optimizing the body’s own healing potential.
Yoga therapy never replaces the medical management of cancer but is a complement to it that aids the patient to cope more and heal more thoroughly. Always, yoga therapists must remain closely coordinated with the treating oncologist to monitor limitations, drug effects, and stages of recovery.
Benefits of Yoga for Cancer Recovery
Reduces stress and anxiety
Improves energy and diminishes fatigue
Aids in better sleep
Enhances immunity through pranayama and meditation
Encourages emotional balance and self-awareness
Increases lymphatic circulation and flexibility (particularly after surgery)
Precautions
Avoid intense physical postures, particularly after surgery or chemotherapy.
Never force the body into pain—be comfortable.
Use props generously (bolsters, cushions, chairs).
Keep sessions brief and relaxing, gradually lengthening as energy levels improve.
Always obtain medical clearance prior to beginning yoga practice.
Recommended Yogic Practices
1. Asanas (Postures)
a) Supta Baddha Konasana (Reclining Bound Angle Pose)
Importance: Gently opens hips and chest, eases relaxation.
Modification: Use cushions under knees and a bolster under the back.
Benefit: Beneficial for individuals recovering from breast cancer or pelvic radiation.
b) Viparita Karani (Legs-up-the-Wall Pose)
Significance: Relieves fatigued legs, decreases edema, quiets the nervous system.
Modification: A bolster under the hips if necessary.
Benefit: Facilitates lymphatic drainage and is highly restorative.
c) Setu Bandhasana (Supported Bridge Pose)
Significance: Stimulates the thyroid and abdominal organs, opens the chest.
Modification: Place a block or bolster under the sacrum.
Benefit: Beneficial for energy replenishment and hormone balance.
d) Marjari-Bitilasana (Cat-Cow Pose)
Significance: Enhances spinal flexibility and coordination.
Modification: May be performed while seated on a chair.
Benefit: Gentle mobilization of the spine and lessening of stiffness.
e) Balasana (Child’s Pose)
Significance: Deeply relaxing, eases tension in the back and mind.
Modification: Place a bolster or blanket under the torso.
Benefit: Great rest pose after fatigue.
2. Pranayama (Breath Regulation)
a) Anulom Vilom (Alternate Nostril Breathing)
Benefit: Balances autonomic nervous system, brings calm.
Caution: Keep it light; avoid if congested.
b) Ujjayi Pranayama
Benefit: Increases oxygenation and balances emotions.
Instruction: Slow, deep breath with mild constriction in the throat.
c) Bhramari (Humming Bee Breath)
Benefit: Reduces anxiety, facilitates sound vibration healing.
3. Meditation & Yoga Nidra
Yoga Nidra (Yogic Sleep)
Effect: Deep physical and mental relaxation.
Recommended: 20–30 minutes daily to alleviate treatment-related fatigue.
Guided Meditation on Healing
Focus: Visualization of healing light, body regeneration, emotional release.
Case Study
Name: Radhika, Age 52, Breast Cancer Survivor
Background: After mastectomy and chemotherapy, she had fatigue, fear, and reduced shoulder mobility.
Yoga Therapy Plan:
Started with gentle restorative postures such as Supta Baddha Konasana and Viparita Karani.
Gradually introduced shoulder-friendly movement through Cat-Cow and wall-supported stretches.
Did daily 15-minute Yoga Nidra and Bhramari Pranayama. Outcome: Within 3 months, sleep improved, emotional resilience returned, and shoulder range improved.
Lifestyle Integration Strategies
Short daily practice: 20–30 minutes of light yoga and breathing.
Diet and fluids: Promote sattvic diet, warm water, and fresh juices.
Support system: Promote attending group classes or support groups.
Gratitude journaling: Fosters emotional well-being and recovery outlook.
Conclusion
Yoga therapy for cancer recovery has less to do with the postures and everything to do with compassion, kindness, and reconnecting. It assists survivors in rebuilding trust in their body, quieting the mind, and invigorating the spirit. Mindful movement, breath, and stillness allow the cancer survivor to develop resilience—bodily, mentally, and spiritually.