SouthernWorldwide.com – Surviving cancer often brings a renewed appreciation for life, yet many individuals continue to grapple with lingering physical and emotional challenges long after their treatment concludes.
A recent clinical trial has revealed that yoga may offer significant relief from insomnia, fatigue, and mood disturbances, common issues faced by cancer survivors even years after remission.
These mood disturbances and insomnia are identified as “two of the most pervasive and troubling side effects experienced by cancer survivors for years after completing adjuvant treatments,” as reported by the researchers in the Journal of Clinical Oncology.
The study highlighted that these symptoms can substantially hinder a survivor’s ability to manage their daily activities.
The research, supported by the National Cancer Institute, involved two groups of cancer survivors. One group received standard survivorship care, while the other combined standard care with the Yoga for Cancer Survivors (YOCAS) program. The majority of participants were women who had survived breast cancer.
The YOCAS program is a four-week intervention that integrates two forms of yoga: Hatha, which is more traditional and active, and restorative, which is a gentler, more passive practice. Both styles emphasize slow, deliberate movements, breathing exercises, and mindfulness, according to information from the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO).
On average, participants in the YOCAS group dedicated approximately 180 minutes per week to yoga practice, spread across three sessions.
By the conclusion of the trial, individuals in the YOCAS group reported notable improvements in their mood, anxiety levels, and fatigue. In contrast, the group receiving only standard care did not experience similar benefits.
The researchers further suggested that “improvements in insomnia stemming from YOCAS yoga may be mediated by changes in overall [mood disturbance] and fatigue.”
Dr. Fumiko Chino, a cancer researcher and associate professor at MD Anderson Cancer Center, commented to ASCO that this study represents a significant advancement. It provides cancer survivors, who are often managing multiple medications, with a non-pharmaceutical option to address four distinct side effects concurrently.
According to Pearman, yoga is recognized as one of the most extensively studied and validated interventions for managing cancer-related fatigue, mood disturbances, and overall physical well-being.
Pearman shared that his wife, Jenny Finkel, is a yoga teacher who completed her advanced training at Duke University’s integrative medicine program, which includes a focus on yoga for cancer patients.
He noted that there are now numerous specialized yoga teacher training programs available nationwide specifically for cancer survivors. Pearman emphasized that yoga’s adaptability makes it an excellent choice, as exercises can be modified to accommodate individuals with significant physical limitations, ensuring broad accessibility.
The affordability of yoga was also highlighted, as it primarily requires a yoga mat and guidance on how to perform the exercises.
Pearman also mentioned that yoga can help mitigate other physical side effects associated with cancer treatment, such as osteoporosis, an increased risk of cardiac issues, and challenges with balance and stamina.
Botwin, who has worked with cancer survivors, pointed out that many deal with emotional challenges like depression and survivor’s guilt, which can impact their healing journey. Beyond the physical benefits, she stated that yoga offers a supportive community of peers, many of whom are considered “cancer thrivers.”
Botwin added that yoga can assist survivors who have undergone body modifications in reframing their perspectives.
She explained that it encourages a shift towards self-compassion, moving away from feelings of shame and self-hatred.
Pearman affirmed that nearly any form of exercise can be beneficial for cancer survivors. He advises his patients to engage in activities they enjoyed before their cancer diagnosis.
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He also noted the widespread availability of free yoga classes tailored for cancer survivors through various non-profit organizations.
