Yoga is increasingly recognized as a beneficial practice for cancer patients. That’s why certified yoga teacher Valérie Coveney is working with L’espoir, c’est la vie to offer yoga classes to oncology patients.

The benefits of yoga in oncology

Yoga offers many benefits to cancer patients:

1. Relief of symptoms
2. Muscle and joint strengthening
3. Improved flexibility
4. Stress and anxiety management
5. Mind-body connection

Medical research has shown the positive effects of yoga for oncology patients. These studies demonstrate the beneficial impact of this practice on patients’ general well-being.

Special characteristics of yoga for cancer patients

Yoga for cancer patients has certain specific aspects:

• Adapting to energy fluctuations: Classes are designed to adapt to participants’ varying energy levels, which can change from week to week depending on treatment and health status.
• Gentle, slow movements : Sessions focus on gentler, slower movements than in a regular yoga class, to respect participants’ physical limits.
• Emphasis on breathing: The emphasis is on synchronizing movement with breathing, which helps concentration and relaxation.
• Use of props: Cushions and other supports are frequently used to help participants execute postures comfortably and safely.

Structure of a typical session

A typical yoga session for cancer patients is as follows:

1. Anchoring: A moment to connect with your body and become aware of your current state.
2. Progressive sequences: A sequence of adapted postures of increasing difficulty, but still accessible.
3. Gentle stretching: Period of longer stretching, often on the floor, to release tension.
4. Final relaxation: A moment of deep relaxation to integrate the benefits of the practice.

Precautions and recommendations

Before starting any yoga practice, it is essential to :

1. Obtain the approval of your doctor or oncologist.
2. Consult a physiotherapist if possible. At Hope & Cope, you can contact Anh Thy (kinesiologist) or Nadia (physiotherapist) if you want to make sure that yoga is safe for you.
3. Choose an appropriate class, ideally led by a professional trained in oncology yoga.
4. Listen to your body and respect its limits.

How do I get started with oncology yoga?

There are several options for starting oncology yoga:

1. Participate in specialized classes, such as the free classes offered by Hope & Cope[LINK].
2. Consult online resources, such as the “Yoga 4 Cancer” videos on YouTube, which offer adapted sessions and exercises.
3. Practice at home with gentle or restorative yoga videos, while listening to your body.

NOTE: If you don’t have yoga experience, it’s best to do it with professionals.

Yoga can be an invaluable ally in the cancer journey. It offers a way to reconnect with your body and manage the stress associated with the disease.

With the necessary adaptations and appropriate supervision, this age-old practice can make a significant contribution to the well-being of oncology patients.

Soft Yoga – in person / Yoga en douceur en personne