Yoga
Yoga is a therapy that is increasing in popularity not only among healthy people, but cancer patients as well. For patients of difficult cancers, Yoga has been adopted by many as a palliative therapy, meaning that while it may not cure the underlying disease, many feel it can help alleviate pain and discomfort. To this end, it can very helpful in that alleviating pain and discomfort allows patients battling cancer to spend much more time with their family and loved ones.
What is Yoga? While the practice originated in India, what we see in gyms across the country today far from resembles traditional Yoga methods used in ancient rituals. Today, the emphasis is predominantly upon postures known as asanas and is used as a form of exercise. In literary terms, the word Yoga means "union", which references a oneness or union of mind, body, and spirit. Through careful attention to postures and allowing the mind to free itself of distractions, it is believed that one will gain access to this sort of unity. In today's world, people accept these ideologies with varying levels of enthusiasm, but most agree that Yoga can provide an incredibly relaxing experience when done correctly.
Because Yoga emphasizes a holistic relaxation, which encompasses both mind and body, many patients of difficult cancers, such as mesothelioma find these practices extremely useful in being able to maintain fitness and gain self reflection. In a difficult battle with cancer, too often patients will neglect to maintain their health as they battle with chemotherapies and other treatments. Yoga can provide both peace of mind and whole body relaxation, which can be extremely valuable for some patients.
Is Yoga right for you? When pursuing any alternative therapies, it is important that patients consult with their physician to affirm that their health will allow therapies such as Yoga, which employs a good deal of physical fitness. Patients who believe Yoga may be able to help them, and who are in good health according to their physician, should attempt to try some therapies outside the traditional treatments of chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery.
