Managing Treatment Side Effects and Cancer Symptoms with Yoga and Meditation
The diagnosis and treatment of cancer can have a profound impact on a person's psychological well-being and overall quality of life. Cancer-directed treatments, such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery, are essential for controlling and potentially curing the disease. However, they often come with a range of side effects and emotional challenges that can be distressing for patients. Mind-body interventions like yoga and meditation have gained popularity as complementary approaches to cancer care. Several research studies in the last two decades unravel the benefits of yoga are known to affect survival in cancer patients.
Yoga is well-known for its stress-reducing benefits. It incorporates relaxation techniques, deep breathing, and mindfulness, all of which can help alleviate the psychological distress associated with a cancer diagnosis and treatment. Yoga has been used in the management of a variety of symptoms such as fatigue, sleep disturbances, loss of appetite, chemotherapy-induced nausea, vomiting, and pain in cancer patients. Practicing yoga regularly can lead to an improvement in mood and a reduction in symptoms of depression and anxiety, which are common among cancer patients. Yoga may help in managing cancer-related pain, both through physical postures that improve flexibility and through relaxation techniques that reduce muscle tension. Cancer and its treatments can lead to physical limitations. Yoga can improve flexibility, balance, and strength, making it easier for cancer patients to regain physical function and cope with treatment-related side effects. Many cancer patients experience sleep disturbances. Yoga can promote better sleep patterns and improve the quality of rest. Participating in yoga classes or support groups focused on yoga can provide a sense of community and support, allowing patients to share their experiences and coping strategies. Yoga can help individuals develop coping skills and resilience, which are crucial when facing the challenges of cancer treatment and recovery.
It is important to note that while yoga can be a valuable complementary therapy, it should not be seen as a replacement for conventional medical treatment. Cancer patients should always consult with their healthcare providers before starting any new therapy, including yoga, to ensure it is safe and appropriate for their individual circumstances.
Meditation is an ancient practice with roots in diverse cultural and spiritual traditions. It has been cultivated and refined over thousands of years. Meditation is defined by the Cambridge dictionary as “the act of giving your attention to only one thing, either as a religious activity or as a way of becoming calm and relaxed.”
Meditation is a practice of working with your mind to expand the peace you experience in life. Meditation is not daydreaming or trying to control your mind. Rather, it is a way of gaining awareness of your thoughts and naturally allowing a state of peace to comfort you.
Regular meditation is known for its potential to provide mental clarity, insights into one's thoughts and emotions, and a sense of inner peace and calm. While meditation has often been associated with religious and spiritual practices, it is not inherently tied to any specific faith. Many secular and non-religious forms of meditation exist, making it accessible to people from all backgrounds. Meditation is a skill that can be learned and developed over time. It doesn't require any special abilities or prior experience. Patience and consistent practice are key. There is a wide array of meditation techniques, with some involving stillness and silence, like mindfulness meditation or concentration meditation. Others incorporate movement, such as tai chi, qigong, or walking meditation. The choice of technique often depends on personal preferences and goals. Meditation is a way to tap into the inherent clarity and spaciousness of the mind. It's not about trying to eliminate thoughts entirely but rather observing them without attachment or judgment. Many meditation practices use the breath as a focal point. Focusing on the breath can help anchor the mind and induce a sense of calm and relaxation.
A review of 11 randomized clinical trials (RCTs) and 6 non- RCTs found consistent support from the efficacy of yoga and meditation to improve mental health outcomes (such as distress, mood and anxiety) during cancer treatment. Some research found improvements in sleep, fatigue, and quality of life during treatment. A review of 9 RCTs and 6 nonrandomized studies of yoga and meditation use by cancer survivors suggests physical and psychosocial benefits.
When practicing yoga and meditation it is important to be realistic and patient with yourself. Understanding that it is normal for thoughts to arise during meditation is essential. Instead of becoming frustrated or discouraged by them, acknowledging their presence, and allowing them to pass, as if they are like passing clouds, is a valuable technique. The key is not to attach to these thoughts or judge yourself for having them. This attitude of non-attachment and non-judgment is a fundamental aspect of mindfulness meditation. Establishing a daily meditation routine, even if it's just for a few minutes, can lead to positive results over time. Consistency helps build the habit and develop meditation skills. The benefits of meditation and yoga often become more apparent with time and dedication. By incorporating these principles into everyday practice, you can gradually cultivate a deeper sense of inner calm, clarity, and well-being.
References
1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5545945/
3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6623989/
4. https://www.cancer.net/blog/2020-03/coping-with-cancer-through-yoga-and-meditation
5. https://www.cancer.net/blog/2022-06/how-get-started-with-meditation-during-cancer
6. https://www.oncnursingnews.com/view/benefits-of-yoga-and-meditation-for-patients-with-cancer
