The link between stress and cancer has been established by recent findings in psycho-neuro-immunology. Research has shown that the doggedness of the cancer cells depends partly on inner body controls that excite tissue growth. These controls appear to be regulated by certain psychological factors, through neurological, hormonal, and immunologic pathways.
Such a physio-mental connection could play a big role in establishing a patient's ability to survive cancer and physio-mental remedies ought to be used to ease these psychological factors. These are not part and parcel of normal support; however some of them are available to patients in certain cancer hospices to relieve symptoms and reduce anxiety.
Yoga for cancer
Yoga can be a powerful tool for healing; particularly since it can help reinforce the immune system.
In yoga, we deal with the body is through the practice of physical postures (called asanas). These invigorate and balance all the systems within the body – circulatory system, respiratory, digestive, nervous system, musculoskeletal, endocrine, reproductive and urogenital system. When something goes out of balance, the whole body gets affected. As a result a number of asanas are practiced in sequence to deal with the whole body.
Yoga practice is always patient specific, depending upon which parts are affected, the type of cancer one is suffering from (or had), and the patient's physical abilities. The physical exercises and asanas in Yoga work in a number of ways on the internal organs and the systems of the body, especially the nervous system. This also includes the joints, muscles and ligaments. Yoga affects ones breathing, posture, circulation, digestion, elimination, plus physical strength, stamina and flexibility.
When practicing a particular asana, the patient must do what he / she can without generating more pain. There may be some discomfort, but going to the point of sharp pain will not in any way benefit the practitioner. Oftentimes the asanas seem easier if the patient actually practises less.
These Yoga sessions also help the cancer patient cope with the traumas that accompany a diagnosis that, as anyone afflicted by cancer knows, carries with it emotions which can be rather devastating at times – shock, fear, anger, guilt, anxiety and grief to name a few. According to Yoga, the most effortless breathing, relaxation and meditation techniques can go a long way in helping the patient deal with them. They can also be of significant help in dealing with the anxiety of surgery, chemotherapy and radiation.
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