How To Use Mindfulness And The Breath For Breast Cancer Recovery

Breast Cancer: A-Z Mindful Practices

By:  Breast Cancer Yoga

Why is it so Important?  What Does Mindful mean?

Mindful Means “being conscious or aware of something directly.” Once mindful, you then can then foster positive change through the development of a mindful practice, like yoga or breathing. Mindfulness, whereby combining the breath consciously with yoga movements brings this awareness of the mind right into the present moment. Right where it needs to be in order to move forward and heal.

Why It is so Important to be Mindful

Because it stops the negative chatter of a restless and wandering mind. Stress and anxiety are some of the byproducts of this unmindfulness. We may also become careless and lack clarity in making good decisions, especially health decisions. It is right now, here where you become “present” to whatever is, or isn’t.  Learning how to stay in a mindful state allows you to get past that which may cause undue stress or harm. This can be attained through the proper training of the breath, focus of the mind and movement of the body.  When both the breath, mind and body come together, consciously, the ability to create relaxation and a new found state of clarity is then realized.  Here you can tackle recovery head on and with deep purpose.

How Does the Breath Make us Mindful?

“When the mind wanders; the breath is sure to follow.” It is stated in yogic practices  that when the mind jumps all over it is called “the monkey mind.” This unfocused mind can create a lot of stress and anxiety, all of which has a negative impact on the mind and body causing a profound effect on the autonomic nervous system which then increases stress hormones and overall emotional responses.

How Does it Help Breast Cancer Recovery?

The reason being mindful is so valuable is that the mind is deeply incorporated with the breath.  A mindful practice is cultivated through learning how to use the breath positively,  or in partnership with the mind.  It is an intentional act of unity, whereby unconscious thoughts and feelings of the mind are then brought to a single point of attention. This is achieved one way by focusing fully on the breath.  Through rhythmically breathing (inhale and exhale of the same duration) we tap into our deepest inner resources for healing, and for relaxation. By flowing through a series of breaths, the body experiences an inner calm which then awakens the prana (life energy) and moves the mind towards a higher level of understanding.  It is through the control of the breath, that the mind will reflect a higher knowledge and a positive state of confidence and self-esteem.  It is  emotionally  challenging to learn you have cancer.  A natural response is “Can I do this? “ Let this be the yoga practice of self-understanding.

Mindful Yoga And Breathing Exercises For Breast Cancer

The deeper the commitment to a Mindful Yoga and Breathing practice, the deeper the relaxation response will manifest, healing the trauma of worry, anxiety and fear associated with the diagnosis of breast cancer. It is challenging to start a yoga practice when this the fear, stress, anxiety and depression surface. It is precisely at that time that we need support, not only from our doctors, families and friends, but most importantly from other women who have breast cancer or even another type of cancer. These personal connections help us to feel “part of” a community who understands our emotions and experiences. Unconditional love creates miracles!  Creating a strong support system and a safe place to be (oneself) are paramount to alleviating the stress that derives from breast cancer.  A clear mind, a full breath and a body in motion are paramount for recovery. YOU are responsible for your healing process and progress so breathe deeply and move freely. 

Breast Cancer: A-Z Mindful Practices

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Breathe With Purpose - Breathing Exercise CD For Breast Cancer Recovery

“Breathe With Purpose”

Easy to Learn Breathing Exercises for Creating Inner Calm, the Sense of Being Present and the Ability to Release Mental Tension.

“Breathe with Purpose” is a step by step instructional audio CD that will teach you how easy it can be to learn how to breath properly.   You will also learn that the quality of the mind is linked directly to the quality of the breath.

With our breathing exercise CD you will receive 6 breathing exercises for breast cancer recovery, stress management and cancer related fatigue. Each CD is 60 minutes with an introduction, benefits and 6 breathing exercises. This collection of therapeutic breathing exercises was created specifically for breast cancer recovery management.

Spiritual: By learning how to breath with awareness you will become the recipient of the benefits that“true breathing” has to offer.  From one ambit is the unconscious, instinctive breath and within the other ambit is the ability to restraint and manage the breath. Somewhere in between lies the intrinsic breath, a conscious continuous flow of air which arises from deep inside of us and returns from whence it came. “Breathing Within the Breath” allows you to seek out insight - insight into the impermanent nature of all mental and physical knowledge.  Allowing for the quiet continuous breath you can begin to hear what the internal heart has to truly say.  The body relaxes and the feeling of releasing tension is felt. Through clear and continuous instruction, each breath will guide you there, and the sense of “being, or being present” will prevail.

Physical: There are two great systems at work when breathing that are instrumental in the flow of vital air.  These two systems, the respiratory and circulatory system bind together to support one another when breathing is in harmony. The respiratory system serves as the vehicle for the gas exchange between oxygen and carbon dioxide.  The circulatory system takes charge of the circulation of oxygen for the metabolic process and for the removal of carbon dioxide.  Carbon dioxide forms as a waste product once it has oxidized. It is here that the physical benefits avail themselves. When there is a quality to breathing we absorb more (prana) life energy and more oxygen from the air. Anything that restricts the movement of the diaphragm restricts the breath. When taking in deeper, fuller inhalations more oxygen can be absorbed which then effectively releases carbon dioxide from the lungs. There is another very important aspect to using the breath correctly and that it becomes the conduit for stress and anxiety relief.

About Dawn Bradford Lange:  Co-founder of Breast Cancer Yoga. Dawn is making a difference with Breast Cancer Yoga therapeutic products designed to support you emotionally and physically during breast cancer . We want to give you the attention and personal service you need so please email us at info@breastcanceryoga.com if you have questions.

Amma Therapy For Breast Cancer

So What is Amma Therapy?

Amma Therapy is an ancient healing system which dates back some 5000 years ago during the Yellow Emperor era. It is a highly skilled system of body work therapy which employs massage techniques, manipulations, and the application of pressure, friction and touch-to-points on the energy channels on which they are found. The channels are the pathways through which energy passes throughout our bodies. Amma, is less defined by a specific technique than by its purpose, philosophy, and sophisticated practice as a healing art.

Amma Therapy is fundamentally an energetic therapy focused on the balance and movement of “life energy” in the human body. Starting with the basic application of hand techniques used to balance the flow of energy. Then other methods were developed, including the use of needles (acupuncture), heat (moxibustion), skeletal manipulation, the appropriate use of herbal medications, diet, and then meditation. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) all these methods target the flow and balance of energy in the channels. The modern Amma therapist is knowledgeable in all of these areas but relies primarily on the sensitivity and strength of the hands to manipulate life energy.

Am-ma means “push-pull” in Chinese. Amma Therapy utilizes all the techniques of the major forms of therapeutic massage:

Deep pressure and point manipulation used in Shiatsu massage are applied to attain the desired effects of energetic movement and release of muscular contraction.

Foot reflex points commonly referred to as “foot reflexology” are stimulated during to these points which often has a profound outcome on the deeper organs and tissues within the body.

Deep Facial manipulation techniques and connective tissue manipulation used in Rolfing are used for muscle stretching and pushing techniques that are common to European or Swedish massage.

In addition, the master therapist is well versed in, and fully capable of, the skeletal manipulations that are the basis of chiropractic. Elizabeth also uses essential oils and healing crystals. She feels the energy blockages and moves energy through. I can feel the warmth rising and my breath being

About Diana Ross: E-RYT 500 restorative yoga teacher, survivor that cares and founder of Breast Cancer Yoga. Diana is making a difference with Breast Cancer Yoga therapeutic products designed to support you emotionally and physically during breast cancer . We want to give you the attention and personal service you need so please email us at info@breastcanceryoga.com if you have questions.

FIR Infrared - A Soothing and Healing Cancer Treatment

By Diana Ross Co-Founder of Breast Cancer Yoga.
FIR Infrared Therapy is a pretty incredible alternative cancer treatment. I was fortunate enough to buy this FIR Infrared “Rainbow” some time back for aches and pains for me and my family.  Now I use it all the time to generate heat “fever heat.” When cancer cells are heated past 41/43c degrees the blood flow is insufficient for the proper elimination of wastes (namely lactic acid) or proper oxygenation, due to the inability of the capillaries to dilate effectively at this higher temperature. Consequently the cancer cells become oxygen-deprived and lactic acid build ups, the pH of the cell will steadily drop, and the cell will die of its own acidity. Healthy cells have no problem regulating themselves at the same temperature (+ 41 degrees C) so I realized that this is a potential cancer treatment without damaging side effects to healthy cells!

What is Far Infrared therapy (FIR) and what does it do?

FIR Infrared Rays are waves of energy, totally invisible to the naked eye and capable of penetrating deep into the human body. The rays gently elevate the body's surface temperature (107.6F/42 celsius and above; this enables the destruction of cancer cells), and activate major bodily functions.

Another thing that I am doing is applying castor oil treatments (pack) over my chest and organs. I saturate the oil on a piece of flannel fabric. Placing a towel underneath my back (just in case) keeps the area clean from any leaks.

Castor oil works as an antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal agent. When applied topically it treats a variety of skin conditions, reduces pain, and stimulates immune system function. It also acts as a lymphatic stimulant so for me to have lymphatic node tumors - it works. Castor oil has been thoroughly investigated for its industrial use but only a minimal amount of research has been focused on its medicinal benefits. That said, the healing properties of castor oil appears to have survived countless generations of scrutiny. One of the more compelling health benefits is castor oil's support of your immune system. This healing property does not require you ingest ing the oil but only to apply it externally. The benefits of castor oil packs were popularized by the late psychic healer Edgar Cayce.

My friend Lorraine Aguilar from www.yogaflowstudio.com is my model. We spent the day going through all my protocols. It was a lot of fun checking everything out. Lorraine brought a “Heart and Lung” Yoga Video for us to explore so there was a lot of sharing and caring.

Last note I am also doing FIR Infrared Sauna treatments which is far more intense for the whole body but very therapeutic. I will save that for another day. Lots more to share. love and light everyone. Please post comments. I enjoy dialoging.


FIR Infrared Studies:

\http://omicsonline.org/nonthermal-effects-of-farinfrared-ray-fir-on-human-hepatocellular-carcinoma-cells-hepg-and-their-tumors-1948-5956.1000012.php?aid=275
http://www.hindawi.com/journals/ijp/2012/646845/abs/
http://europepmc.org/abstract/med/10628363   breast cancer study
http://www.journeyofhealth.net/energytherapy/hothouse_fir.php
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2386844/
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3546001/

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About Diana Ross: E-RYT 500 restorative yoga teacher, survivor that cares and founder of Breast Cancer Yoga. Diana is making a difference with Breast Cancer Yoga therapeutic products designed to support you emotionally and physically during breast cancer . We want to give you the attention and personal service you need so please email us at info@breastcanceryoga.com if you have questions.

Breast Cancer Recovery - 3 Elements For A Restorative Yoga Practice

Restorative Yoga, Breathing and Yoga Props for Breast Cancer Physical Therapy

Restorative Yoga DVD at www.breastcanceryoga.com

There are 3 basic elements that are needed in a restorative yoga practice in order to receive the therapeutic benefits for breast health and breast cancer recovery.

  A healthy restorative yoga practice includes:

     *Gentle repetitive movements

     *Specific breathing exercises

     *Use of props

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Ultimately this system of restorative yoga encourages and supports recovery back to a balanced state of mind and body.  This is when one can learn to lessen muscle and emotional tension, and replace it with self-nurturance, health, vitality and hope.  Breast Cancer Yoga is this kind of gentle flowing yoga which encourages good health while in recovery and beyond.  It is restorative; there are no weight bearing poses that cause pain, no headstands or challenging poses. Come and visit our YouTube Channel and try our various flowing yoga videos.
www.breastcanceryoga.com

About Dawn Bradford Lange:  Co-founder of Breast Cancer Yoga. Dawn is making a difference with Breast Cancer Yoga therapeutic products designed to support you emotionally and physically during breast cancer . We want to give you the attention and personal service you need so please email us at info@breastcanceryoga.com if you have questions.

How Does Yoga Help Those Undergoing Treatment For (Breast) Cancer?

Yoga For Breast Cancer
www.BreastCancerYoga.com

Yoga addresses the side effect distresses of (breast) cancer. These side effects can include lymphedema (swelling), cancer-related fatigue, nausea, pain, weight loss, sleep disorders, stress, fear, anxiety, depression and restlessness. In current studies of women managing these symptoms of distress the following was reported: those doing yoga therapy showed a significant reduction in side effect and symptom distresses. Their (QOL) Quality of Life was shown to be significantly higher when practicing yoga.  Anxiety, emotional stress, fear and negative moods are common causes of poor (QOL). The entire recovery process can disrupt routines, relationships, careers and other aspects of life. 

Yoga offers the opportunity to alleviate these obstacles and decrease there interference with recovery. Yoga assists in diminishing suffering from common chemotherapy and radiation treatments. Depression is also important to address with (breast) cancer patients. The uncertainty about prognosis and treatment, concerns of pain or even death, lack of physical and functional abilities and social changes contribute to depression. Patients who practice yoga appear to cope better with symptoms of illness, and the side effects and distresses of treatments. It is sited that the physical poses, breathing exercises, meditation techniques are especially helpful components of a yoga practice. 

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Yoga Benefits Women With Breast Cancer - Lorenzo Cohen, Ph.D.

Video and Article From MD Anderson YouTube Channel.

New study shows yoga can regulate stress hormones and improve quality of life for women with breast cancer undergoing radiation therapy.

For women with breast cancer undergoing radiation therapy, yoga offers unique benefits beyond fighting fatigue, according to research from The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center.

The preliminary findings were first reported in 2011 by Lorenzo Cohen, Ph.D., professor and director of the Integrative Medicine Program at MD Anderson, and are now published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology. This research is part of an ongoing effort to scientifically validate mind-body interventions in cancer patients and was conducted in collaboration with India's largest yoga research institution, Swami Vivekananda Yoga Anusandhana Samsthana in Bangalore, India.

http://www.mdanderson.org/education-a...

Researchers found that while simple stretching exercises counteracted fatigue, patients who participated in yoga exercises that incorporated controlled breathing, meditation and relaxation techniques into their treatment plan experienced improved ability to engage in their daily activities, better general health and better regulation of cortisol (stress hormone). Women in the yoga group were also better equipped to find meaning in the illness experience, which declined over time for the women in the other two groups.

The study also assessed, for the first time, yoga benefits in cancer patients by comparing their experience with patients in an active control group who integrated simple, generic stretching exercises into their lives.

"Combining mind and body practices that are part of yoga clearly have tremendous potential to help patients manage the psychosocial and physical difficulties associated with treatment and life after cancer, beyond the benefits of simple stretching," said Cohen.

To conduct the study, 191 women with breast cancer (stage 0-3) were randomized to one of three groups: 1) yoga; 2) simple stretching; or 3) no instruction in yoga or stretching. Participants in the yoga and stretching groups attended sessions specifically tailored to breast cancer patients for one-hour, three days a week throughout their six weeks of radiation treatment.

Participants were asked to report on their quality of life, including levels of fatigue and depression, their daily functioning and a measure assessing ability to find meaning in the illness experience. Saliva samples were collected and electrocardiogram tests were administered at baseline, end of treatment, and at one, three and six months post-treatment.

Women who practiced yoga had the steepest decline in their cortisol levels across the day, indicating that yoga had the ability to help regulate this stress hormone. This is particularly important because higher stress hormone levels throughout the day, known as a blunted circadian cortisol rhythm, have been linked to worse outcomes in breast cancer.

Additionally, after completing radiation treatment, only the women in the yoga and stretching groups reported a reduction in fatigue. At one, three and six months after radiation therapy, women who practiced yoga during the treatment period reported greater benefits to physical functioning and general health. They were more likely to find life meaning from their cancer experience than the other groups.

According to Cohen, research shows that developing a yoga practice also helps patients after completing cancer treatment.

"The transition from active therapy back to everyday life can be very stressful as patients no longer receive the same level of medical care and attention. Teaching patients a mind-body technique like yoga as a coping skill can make the transition less difficult."

Through a grant from the National Cancer Institute, Cohen and his team are now conducting a Phase III clinical trial in women with breast cancer to further determine the mechanisms of yoga that lead to improvement in physical functioning, quality of life and biological outcomes during and after radiation treatment. A secondary aim of the trial, but one of great importance, stressed Cohen, is assessing cost efficiency analysis for the hospital, health care usage costs in general and examining work productivity of patients.

MD Anderson recognizes the growing body of research indicating that relaxation-based interventions can contribute to the well-being of people with cancer. Through the Integrative Medicine Program, complementary therapies, such as yoga, are offered at MD Anderson's Integrative Medicine Center, and are used in concert with mainstream care to manage symptoms, relieve stress, enhance quality of life and improve outcomes for patients and their caregivers.

Yoga Pose For Breast Cancer "Lazy Leg Twist & Flow"

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Purpose of Twists
Twists can boost energy when feeling tired or fatigued. When we twist, we literally squeeze tension and toxins out from the body. In twisting poses, our muscles have an opportunity to squeeze and relax, and once finished, the area that released will then experience a rush of blood and nutrients.
Results of Twists
The intervertebral discs and ligaments stretch and lengthen which helps maintain spinal flexibility. The twists offered in this e-book promote improved digestion and elimination because twists aid in the cleansing and massaging of the internal organs. Twists have been known to produce much needed energy which can be used to carry out our daily routines. Using twisting poses to support and encourage a balancing of emotions helps decrease stress. Let's not forget that twists also improve respiratory function when there is stretching and compression.
When Doing Twists
A few things to remember before doing a twist is to lengthen the spine, yet soften the shoulders down to increase flexibility. If there isn't lengthening going on, the ROM (range of motion) will be limited in the rotation. Start the twist from the base of the spine rather than pushing into it. This will maintain safety for the spine and allow the twist to be right where it should be, and not past it.
When to do Seated Poses
Before you start anything new or return to your exercise routine, it is important to ask your health care provider to give you the go ahead to begin. Then if you feel that you can sit with supporting props for a certain amount of time and not feel too fatigued or physically uncomfortable, it is then time to try.
Twists and the Breath
When moving into a twisting action there may be a feeling of constriction in the lungs. Consequently, the lower lungs start working at their minimum capacity, thereby making the mid and upper lungs work harder and with less discomfort. The ability to develop and direct an even breath into the most open space in the body while in a twist, (not focusing on the compression) is beneficial for overcoming stress. When stress arises, our body may tense up which then may hamper the breath. It is here where the lack of directing the breath properly may be recognized. Learning to work with the breath while doing twists can be very therapeutic.

Exercise For Breast Cancer

Here are a few points regarding exercise during and post-surgery and/or treatment:

• Strength training will support bone integrity that becomes compromised with chemo and steroids. Discuss this with your physician if lymph nodes are affected in your cancer treatment or lymphodema in the arm is present.
• A moderate/low intensity cardio program will support a healthy heart, circulation and mood – a mild sweat is a good guideline. Do wipe off the sweat so it does not re-enter the body, after all, the skin is an organ of elimination. (While undergoing radiation treatment, do discuss this with your doctor, as there are restrictions.)
• Clothing might present some challenges. Make comfortable and organic cotton choices that allow free movement and airflow.
• Physical therapy, post-therapy exercise will provide ROM (range of motion) as incisions start to heal. You want to avoid restrictions in movement to prevent secondary shoulder, wrist, neck and back problems. The process of regaining full range of motion after surgery does take time.
• Acupuncture on the scares and adhesions is a good idea as scars can disrupt the nervous system. At the same time it will boost immune function and provide stress reduction. It is necessary to wait for healing of the skin.
  Fatigue must be respected – yet a gentle exercise program will actually increase energy and support lymphatic flow.
• Posture exercises: With the physical, emotional and psychological trauma, it is ‘normal’ to pull inwards in a protective manner esp. after surgery. Awareness and gentle exercises that pay attention to good posture will support the physical body and energetic flow between organs and glands.
• Social support and laughter are so important. If possible seek out a fun, nurturing and safe environment. Uplifting music does help too!
• Radiation adversely affects heart and lung health. (I am aware that this is a controversial point.) The bottom line is: Do support your cardiovascular system

READ FULL ARTICLE AT BREAST CANCER AUTHORITY BLOG
In the meantime, let’s keep walking, healing and smiling!
About Rika Keck: Find Rika at NYIntegratedHealth.com
 . Rika specializes in Nutrition, Fitness and  Women’s Wellness. Rika is Certified in Functional Diagnostic Nutrition, also a CMTA Speaker, Corporate Wellness Consultant and Holistic Life Coach.
Rika Keck, FDN, ACN, CMTA
http://www.NYIntegratedHealth.com
646 285-8588
646 285-8588

Breast Cancer Yoga DVD

Breast Cancer Yoga DVD
For Breast Cancer Recovery & Lymphedema Management
If you have recently been diagnosed with breast cancer or those undergoing treatment often suffer from fatigue, depression and anxiety. Learn how gentle restorative yoga can improve your sense of wellness through stretching, body awareness and relaxation can aide in healing and recovery.
Take an Active Role in Your Recovery
Breast Cancer Yoga’s certified and registered yoga therapist Diana Ross, created Gentle Restorative Yoga for Breast Cancer Recovery & Lymphedema Management DVD that can help improve your symptoms and well-being. Through various relaxation exercises, participants are able to benefit from greater healing. This DVD begins with a focus on simple breathing and flowing yoga movements. Learn how to assume relaxing positions that help loosen, stretch, and strengthen the body. You will learn to become comfortable holding new body postures, that can be used during  diagnosis, treatment and recovery. Set aside a special time in the day to relax, breathe slowly, and enjoy this wonderful yoga DVD. 

Concerns

Don’t worry about whether you have enough flexibility or strength. Your level of physical conditioning or previous yoga experience is not important. This class is for all levels of students, including those who have never tried yoga before. Since each person is affected by breast cancer differently, we explore many options so all students benefit.
 
Physical Benefits

• Stretching and strengthening shoulder and chest muscles

• Helping regain range of motion
 
• Reducing the tightness of scar tissue

• Utilizing breathing techniques to promote mind and body healing 

Emotional Benefits

• Reducing sleep problems

• Lessening fatigue
 
• Decreasing stress levels

• Energizing your mind, body, and spirit
 
• Encouraging deep relaxation, promoting deep healing

• Increasing your sense of well being and overall quality of life 


Remember
Consult your health care provider before you begin practicing yoga. Perform yoga poses carefully and slowly, paying attention to the sensations in your body. Should you experience pain or discomfort, do not perform the pose until you have further guidance from a professional.


Diana Ross, E-RYT 500
Diana Ross an expert yoga therapist that created produced and narrates Gentle Restorative Yoga DVD. To learn more about Breast Cancer Yoga visit Breast Cancer Yoga

Breast Cancer Healing With Pink Salt

Instinctively we are drawn to water, especially the big oceans. We like returning to this specific vibration of the ocean.  The primordial ocean from whence we came and have a connection to.  Vacationing or even walking on the beach has renewal, reenergizing capabilities. We feel recharged after spending time at the beach.

More and more people are seeking out holistic methods, natural foods and medicines and utilizing natural salts seem to be part of this healing method.  There are so many positive healing qualities of natural crystal salt. We find it in skin care, inhalers, cleansing treatments for illnesses, bath salts for detoxification and respiratory ailments.

Allopathic medicine has endorsed using salts for a very long time. One of the oldest and largest salt works in Europe occupies the royal salt mines of Wieliczka, Poland. It is here where a hospital was dug out of a salt mountain some 740 feet below the ground surface. This hospital has a success rate of 90%for those suffering from asthma, lung disease and allergies. Now there are many underground therapeutic spas located in Germany.

Natural salt has a neutralizing force.  It can neutralize radioactive radiation just to give you an idea of it’s power.  It isn’t just this power in purity of air but also it’s healing effects or resonant vibrations that can activate our self healing and self regulating power. When our body is sick and lacking it’s natural frequency, for example from the depletion from chemo or radiation therapy, salt can bring us back into more of a balanced and recharged state.  Thereby replenishing the body with it’s energy deficit.  In principle, all symptoms of illness can be therapeutically neutralizing with salt.

You can drink salt and water (Sole’) which will stimulate your metabolism and digestion.  Electrolytes are created which improves the body’s conductivity and stimulates circulation.  In fact, Sole’ lowers blood pressure if it is high, and raises it if blood pressure is low.  The primary attribute of Sole’ is to restore balance. I know that doctors tell us to stay away from salt but which salt are they referring to?  For common over processed table salt this is a true statement but not for slat having in tact holistic properties.  I speak about real, whole, pure crystal salt.

Sole’ is an exceptional harmonizer in balancing acid/alkaline pH in the body. It will flush out heavy metals such as mercury, lead, arsenic and amalgam, even calcifications.  Crystal salt breaks down molecule compounds.  This is when salt and water is taken internally. 

Now let’s look at crystal salt and it’s cleansing ability externally, as in a therapeutic Sole’ bath.  One would think salt bath as a bath that takes moisture out of the body but instead a Sole’ bath maintains a natural, protective layer of the skin and the skin does not dry out.  Sole’ baths are great to restore the skin. A Sole’ bath is so effective that it will allow toxins to be extracted through the skin (the largest organ of the body) by way of osmosis.  Meanwhile when toxins are removed, minerals are absorbed through the skin.  Taking a Sole’ bath is like taking an energy bath. Bioenergetic deficits are rebalanced.  Our body’s electric current is charged up leaving us feeling light and strong.  A Sole’ bath activates the natural regulatory mechanism of the body and it’s self healing powers.

All this great therapeutic qualities come when taking a Sole’ bath but one big item not mentioned until now is it’s relaxing effects on the mind, body and spirit.  Bathing quietly allows for a deep state of relaxation which helps to regulate our breath and our blood circulation.  This helps with having an extra ordinary healing effects through the absence of gravity. Mind, body and spirit experience their fullest integration.
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Which Herbs and Aromas Help Breast Cancer Symptoms?

Watch Diana Ross TV Interview

Herbal Medicine and Aromatherapy

http://www.askimotv.com/pages/playvideo.aspx

Breast Cancer Herbal Tea Benefits

Drink Medicinal Herbal Teas

It is acknowledged in the medical community that herbal remedies do play a vital part of holistic healing for cancers. Herbal teas can aid in cancer symptoms or help build overall health. They also contain high levels of antioxidants. Green tea is beneficial for calming and relaxing the body so strive to drink one cup every day.  Even the ritual of putting the tea pot on can calm you down. Peppermint tea is used to settle an upset stomach and help digest foods. Add ginger and it is good for nausea. Chamomile tea is great for promoting sleep and helps with anxiety. Using a single herb or tea blends both have amazing medicinal properties. Use as immune boosters, digestives, stimulants, calming and even for socializing; a cup of tea always hits the spot.

Learn More About Herbal Teas

By: Breast Cancer Yoga Founder & Survivor Diana Ross, E-RYT 500

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Diet For Breast Cancer Prevention & Recovery

Your diet really does make a difference when it comes to breast cancer prevention and recovery. A plant based diet should be a fundamental part of a healthy cancer free lifestyle. Make your diet rich in organic fruits and vegetables that are full of micronutrients and bioflavonoids which are duly noted to help prevent breast cancer or other cancers. Five or more servings per day is recommended by the American Cancer Institute. Red and blue berries hold a significant amount of the necessary cell builders and anti-carcinogenic  properties that are necessary on our tables. Cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, brussels sprouts, kale, cabbage, and bok choy are just a few vegetables that are loaded with micronutrients.  They all contain vitamins and minerals, and fiber; all are important to your health (some having more importance than others).

FREE Breast Cancer Healthy Recipes

By Breast Cancer Yoga Founder & Survivor: Diana Ross, E-RYT 500

How Can Women Use Yoga to Prevent Breast Cancer?

Watch Diana Ross TV Interview

and find out about:  WATCH NOW

How does yoga help breast cancer recovery in particular? Yoga does three things, it creates lymph to move throughout the channels, encourages deep breathing, and fosters relaxation. All this helps to decrease cortisol and increases GABA levels so that a feeling of harmony can occur.

How can women use yoga to prevent breast cancer? There are many things women can do to help prevent breast cancer. First is to move your arms to help stimulate lymph flow, become a conscious breather. The breath is instrumental in also moving lymph. Eating right, getting lots of good sleep, drinking good quality water, and surrounding yourself with those that love you all play a part in good heal and cancer prevention. 

In your experience how does the holistic approach to treating breast cancer differ from the generic western approach? There are three approaches, alternative, complementary and allopathic. Currently allopathic medicine has been introducing more and more complementary therapies in their bag of wellness tricks, and yoga is one of them. You will see more and more merging together when someone is diagnosis with breast cancer. Studies are supporting the benefits of yoga and recovery.
What is Asana and what is its connection to Breast cancer? A yoga pose is called an asana.

These questions will be answered by Diana Ross- Experienced-Registered Yoga Teacher, breast cancer survivor and the founder of Breast Cancer Yoga.

How To Use A Dry Skin Brush For Breast Cancer & Lymphedema

Dry Brush

Dry Brush For Breast Cancer

Dry brushing stimulates the skin and circulates lymph fluid which is vital for overall health. The skin is the largest organ in the body and is responsible for a quarter of the body’s detoxification. The ability of the skin to excrete toxins is of paramount importance. Dry skin brushing helps to shed dead skin cells, which improves skin texture and cell renewal.

 

How To Use A Dry Brush For Breast Cancer & Lymphedema

1. Dry Brush your entire body before you shower, preferably in the morning or before bed. This helps loosen and remove dead skin and uric acid crystals.
2. Start at the soles of your feet doing circular movements, then brush upwards on your legs toward your heart. Use long, even strokes.
3. Brush all the way up your legs, scooping forward from behind your hips to your tummy. If you have cellulite on your hips and thighs, concentrate their a little longer.
4. Then begin circular movements over your tummy. Start with up on right and down on left, simulating the natural movement of the bowels.
5. Be kind in the thin sensitive skin areas of inner arm, arm pits or tops of hands and not directly on breasts. Avoid brushing anywhere the skin is broken or where you have a rash, infection, cut or wound.
6. When ready, start the shower with warm water and end briefly with cold. Let the cold water start at your legs then the heart is last. This hot/cold therapy further stimulates the lymphatic system which improves overall circulation.
7. Dry off vigorously and massage pure plant oils into your skin or spray on Simply Lavender. You may want your skin to breathe for a while too. Enjoy this process of good health and detoxification.

Dry Brushing - Skin Exfoliant

Dry skin brushing increases circulation to skin, encouraging your body’s discharge of metabolic wastes, which greatly aids the lymphatic drainage of the entire body. When the body rids itself of toxins, it is able to run more efficiently in all areas. Dry skin brushing stimulates the lymph canals to drain toxic mucoid matter into the colon, thereby purifying the entire system. This enables the lymph to perform its house-cleaning duties by keeping the blood and other vital tissues detoxified.

Visit www.breastcanceryoga.com

Breast Cancer Dry Brush

Breast Cancer Dry Brush

Dry Brush Therapeutic Treatment for Breast Cancer 

Breast Cancer Yoga Gift Baskets

Dry skin brushing increases circulation to skin, encouraging your body’s discharge of metabolic wastes, which greatly aids the lymphatic drainage of the entire body. When the body rids itself of toxins, it is able to run more efficiently in all areas. Dry brushing increases circulation of the lymphatic system, which helps the body detox through the skin, and other elimination systems within the body.

        Benefits Include

• Increases circulation
• Helps shed dead skin
• Improves skin texture
• Cell renewal
• Rids body of toxins
• Detoxify the skin
• Aides lymph drainage
• Body rids itself of toxins
• Stimulates skin
• Circulates lymph flow

Visit www.breastcanceryoga.com/Dry-Brush.html
www.breastcanceryoga.com

Breast Cancer Dry Brush, a photo by Breast Cancer Yoga on Flickr.
Via Flickr:

Yoga As A Complementary Therapy For Breast Cancer

Diana Ross, E-RYT 500

Yoga Has Stepped Into Center Stage As An Integrated Complementary Therapy

Yoga for balancing the mind, body and spirit.  Integrated yoga therapy includes postures, breathing exercises, meditations, chanting, a healthy lifestyle and most importantly relaxation techniques. There are numerous studies worldwide providing scientific evidence of yoga’s therapeutic potential. It is now known that when the nervous system is balanced, the parasympathetic and sympathetic systems function correctly and the brain works together to create a balance of both action and calmness. The body’s immune system is revitalized to create dynamic responses that maintain health. When the body experiences this balance, the mind also experiences it and a higher knowledge or spirit prevails. Yoga is that vehicle to bring the mind, body and spirit together as one. 

Yoga Can Be a Lot Of Fun 

Enjoy every deep, slow breath while moving your arms, legs and torso. It is so important to evenly pace the movement with the breath. The breath is key to your wellness. It too balances the mind, body and spirit. It is the cosmic gas station.  “If the mind wanders the breath will follow.” Take it slow, take a big conscious breath, come into the present moment and just Be. 

Diana Ross, E-RYT500, CYT, Certified TriYoga

Founder, Breast Cancer Yoga

www.breastcanceryoga.com

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Breast Cancer Recovery Walking Meditaion

Well there are many of us who just don’t or can’t sit still.  The mind takes over and we struggle with quieting ourselves.  We can’t sit, we need to move around so why not a walking meditation.  The picture I shared of a path in the woods is from my morning meditative walk with my dog, “Happy Riley”.   We both so look forward to this time.  He smiles the entire walk.

To begin YOUR walk you need to be conscious of your footsteps, and your pacing.  You want to breath in feeling the your expand inside you and walk with slow and deliberate steps.  Feel the earth under you feet.  Notice if you feel light or heavy.  Is your chest lifted or is it drooping forward?  Be as comfortable as possible. Now notice everything.  Let you vision expand to every space.  Smell the air.  Is it crisp?  Is there a breeze? Notice everything.  Just be mindful of your surroundings.  Now notice your breath.  Without taking control of your breath, allow it feel natural and satisfying.  Let your arms and hands dangle to your side body or maybe in your pockets.  I personally love pockets.  Feel your inhaling breath come and expand your chest; now let your exhaling breath release thoughts that may take you away from this walking meditation.  Walk if you can for 15/30 minutes.  Then when you reach home see if you can sit comfortably and quietly for 5 minutes.  Set an intention for your day. This could be the start of a great restorative walking meditation. 

By: Diana Ross, E-RYT 500
Founder: Breast Cancer Yoga

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Breathing for Detoxification: Breast Cancer Recovery

Breathing for Breast Cancer Recovery

Activate the detoxification process. By encouraging and maintaining a large supply of oxygen in the lungs, the brain opens up new areas which supports the functioning of the body’s organs.  A deep breath works directly with the peristalsis movement which in turn stimulates the release of liver bile.  Whenever the breath is allowed to slow down and lengthen, a balance in oxygen exchange is encouraged. This balanced breath exchange provides nutrients to the blood.  

Deep breathing will encourage the release of body toxins, rebuild healthy tissue and increase energy.   It will also stimulate digestion, assimilation and elimination for better health. The most important function of  all  is how this special birthright breath can stimulate the body’s natural response that results in less tension and an overall sense of well being.

Learn about yoga and breathing offered by Breast Cancer Yoga with Diana Ross, E-RYT 500 visit www.BreastCancerYoga.com

Many more “Healthy & Hopeful Lifestyle” breast cancer recovery tools available at http://www.breastcanceryoga.com