We often her that Yoga benefits cancer patients, but how does this happen? For those of us who are regular Yoga practitioners, and who are facing a cancer diagnosis, maintaining a daily or weekly Yoga practice can help to engender a sense of normalcy and promote self-care during a very difficult time period in your life. This is particularly true if you are accustomed to practicing several times a week, in order to generate energy, balance and well-being. However, if you are undergoing treatment for cancer, you may find it difficult to do the same kind of Yoga practice that you are used to doing for months, or even years to come.
During the time period when you are healing from cancer and any cancer treatments that you have undergone, including surgeries, radiation and chemotherapy, you may find it to be more manageable and respectful of your own body to engage in a slower-paced, restorative practice. Of course, it is prudent to check with your family doctor or surgeon before engaging in any Yoga practice post-operatively. Do keep in mind that if you push yourself too quickly back into a challenging physical practice, you may find that you are undermining the healing and well-being that you are seeking.