Globally, over 18 million people are diagnosed with cancer each year. With numerous types of cancer affecting individuals worldwide, it is widely acknowledged that multiple issues and challenges can elevate the risk of developing the disease. Today, lifestyle disorders, mental health challenges, smoking and drinking and multiple other factors are increasingly causing cancer. The worst part is that the illness is affecting people across age groups, demographics, ethnicities and economical strata.
When it comes to a country like India, we have the ancient mantra of Yoga, which has been instrumental for regulating the mind, body and soul. Interestingly, recent studies have also highlighted significant benefits of yoga for cancer patients, demonstrating that it can substantially reduce the likelihood of the disease recurring or spreading. Many studies have shown the positive impact of yoga on cancer patients, coping with symptoms and side effects.
Mental and Physical Benefits of Yoga
Yoga is a mind-body practice that integrates three core elements: physical poses (asanas), which enhances flexibility and strength; breathing techniques, which manage stress and improve respiratory function; and meditation/mindfulness exercises, which promotes mental clarity and relaxation. This holistic approach benefits cancer patients both mentally and physically, offering support alongside traditional treatments.
Though yoga does not directly combat cancer, it effectively helps in mitigating many side effects associated with the disease and its treatments. Research highlights yoga’s capacity to ease cancer-related fatigue, a common and debilitating issue that affects patients before, during, and after treatment. This fatigue can significantly impact quality of life, making its management crucial.
Beyond alleviating fatigue, yoga also contributes to improved sleep quality, helping in overall recovery and restfulness. It also supports recovery post-surgery by promoting physical activity and flexibility, which are essential for healing. Moreover, yoga has been shown to reduce depression, anxiety, and distress; common psychological burdens faced by cancer patients. Improvements have been observed in negativity, distress, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, and spiritual well-being. The practice of mindfulness and meditation brings in a sense of calm and mental clarity, helping patients manage emotional challenges and stress.
Established theories
Several studies have showed multiple positive effect of cancer on patients. While some studies have shown improvement in sleep quality, some have shown that yoga possesses anti-inflammatory properties, which are crucial for both the prevention and treatment of cancer. One research indicates that yoga significantly reduces inflammation, potentially inhibiting tumour growth and metastasis. Several studies, particularly those focusing on women with breast cancer, have demonstrated yoga’s effectiveness in reducing fatigue. Another recent study has shown that yoga holds the key to restoring brain health in long-term cancer survivors. The best part is that yoga is the simplest intervention anyone can do by just sitting in a chair. Ultimately, it is the body healing itself.
The stress and side effects of cancer treatment often disrupt sleep patterns, leading to issues such as excessive daytime napping, difficulty falling asleep, and early waking. A review of multiple studies suggests that yoga can be an effective remedy. Yoga programs that combine gentle poses, breathing, and meditation have proven to reduce insomnia amongst cancer patients and survivors.
Chemotherapy induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN), a common side effect, causes tingling, pain, and muscle weakness in the hands and feet. A study on the effects of yoga and meditation on CIPN revealed that participants experienced improved flexibility, better balance, and reduced fall risk after an eight-week program. They also reported decreased pain and enhanced relaxation.
Some recommended Yoga Poses for Cancer Patients
While there is no one-size-fits-all approach to yoga for cancer patients, certain poses are particularly beneficial- Mountain Pose (Tadasana) which enhances posture and balance; Cat-Cow Pose (Marjaryasana-Bitilasana) which Promotes spinal flexibility and reduces tension; Legs-Up-The-Wall Pose (Viparita Karani) which aids relaxation and reduces swelling in the legs. Child’s Pose (Balasana) provides a gentle stretch and mental relaxation.
In summary, yoga provides a holistic approach to enhancing the quality of life for cancer patients by addressing both physical and mental well-being. Integrating yoga into cancer care can significantly relieve fatigue and other side effects, supporting patients throughout their treatment journey. Regular yoga practice can greatly improve quality of life, reduce the risk of cancer recurrence, and alleviate various treatment-related side effects.
The author is the Honorary Secretary, Indian Cancer Society, Delhi Branch
