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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Yoga for Sleep During Cancer Recovery

Yoga For Sleep

 

Gentle Yoga DVD

Practicing restorative yoga has shown to improve sleep and overall quality of life in cancer survivors. Along with improved sleep it appears to also improve fatigue, which along with impaired sleep quality are the most prevalent and troublesome adverse effects experienced by cancer survivors. Both can significantly affect quality of life.  All this creates greater consistent energy in the body and a mental balance in the mind. 

Breathe With Purpose CD

The breath will maintain balance in every activity you perform or need to perform. The breath dictates performance, and the performance dictates the breath. When you are tiring you will notice your breath becoming shallow and even labored. This shallow breathing boost the sympathetic nervous system, which in turns makes you nervous, thus zapping you of the much required energy. This energy is needed to perform the most simplest tasks when we are not feeling up for doing anything; yet we do need to move forward.  

Deep full breathing, like a COMPLETE BREATH will stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system and form inner calm for the brain. Maintaining the awareness of the breath when we need this energy will support us.  

Learn more about breathing for Breast Cancer Recovery at Breast Cancer Yoga

 

Top 5 Reasons To Do Yoga For Breast Cancer Recovery

5 Reasons To Do Yoga

Top 5 Reasons To Do Yoga For Breast Cancer Recovery, a photo by Breast Cancer Yoga on Flickr.

Via Flickr:
Yoga Practice for Breast Cancer will provide a way to de-stress and detoxify with movement. Yoga is a most healing practice and whether you choose to join a local or online class, be sure your instructor is well trained and privy to the fact that you are dealing with a serious illness. Visit www.breastcanceryoga.com

Yoga DVD

Healthy Exercise For Breast Cancer

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 Restorative Yoga Pose - L Seat Half Butterfly Twist

This is a classic twisting yoga pose that helps to squeeze out toxins. Using resistance to really go a bit further helps to squeeze out tensions too. When you are in breast cancer recovery, twists play a vital role in wellness. We typically do not twist in our day-to-day routines so the toxins remain until we go directly after a pose to begin the process of elimination. Letting the knee externally rotate out to side also releases any pent up tensions or tightness in the groin and hip area. Try it for yourself and use your breath fully so that every drop of tension leaves your mind and body.

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.

 

Restorative Yoga For Breast Cancer Recovery Book

By: Dawn Bradford-Lange, Co-Founder of Breast Cancer Yoga.

Restorative Yoga For Breast Cancer Recovery: Gentle Flowing Yoga For Breast Health, Breast Cancer Related Fatigue & Lymphedema Management was created for a therapeutic healing experience while being affordable to all. Restorative Yoga For Breast Cancer Recovery is an unique restorative yoga therapy book for you or a loved one who has been recently diagnosed, is in treatment, or in recovery.

Book Includes:

• 275+ Yoga Poses Images
• 70+ Easy To Learn Yoga Poses
• Illustrated Step By Step Instructions
• Benefits Included For Each Pose
• Use of Yoga Props Introduced
• Breath Instructions For Each Pose
• Valuable Tool For Yoga Teachers
• Great For Beginners

Book Description:
This is an unique restorative yoga therapy book for breast health, lymphedema management and breast cancer recovery. This book contains a wide variety of supported restorative yoga poses that use different yoga props. The breath is also introduced with each flowing pose so that the mind as well as the muscles “let go” and relax allowing for the healing to begin and then to grow. Yoga poses are done either in a relaxed, reclined, seated, twisting and standing position. Restorative Yoga For Breast Cancer Recovery is a great beginning to build a practice for strength and flexibility, as well as aiding in lymphedema management. This book outlines a variety of easy to learn restorative yoga poses which can emotionally and physically improve the recovery process from breast cancer surgeries, radiation and chemotherapy treatments. It is also invaluable in maintaining breast health, reducing cancer related fatigue (CRF), and managing lymphedema. If you or a loved one has been recently diagnosed, is in treatment or in recovery, this yoga is the perfect place to start. Discover how a consistent practice of Restorative Yoga can provide inner peace and healing for your mind, body and spirit. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

About the Author
Diana loves sharing her knowledge on the empowering benefits of restorative yoga flow. Her credentials as a yoga therapist are: E-RYT 500 (Experienced-Registered Yoga Teacher), CYT (Certified Yoga Therapist), and (Certified KaliRay) TriYoga. Her Restorative Yoga Flow teachings are designed and focused for women in recovery, either from breast cancer or from injury and illness. She also loves sharing her excitement for native american plants and their usefulness as complementary herbal medicines. Diana credentials in herbal medicines are: Certificates of Completion in: Therapeutic Botanicals in Medicinal Herbalism, Native American Herbs, Herbalism 5 Phase Theory, Medicine Making in Native American Herbs, and TCM-Traditional Chinese Medicines. The knowledge of Native American plants is expressed on her website, authority blog and to her students.

About Diana Ross: An expert in the field of yoga, and complementary herbal medicines. She has dedicated the last 30 years studying yoga philosophy and Native American herbs. Her credentials are as an E-RYT 500 (Experienced-Registered Yoga Teacher) and CYT (Certified Yoga Therapist). Diana’s system of yoga is KaliRay TriYoga. She has studied with Yogini Kali Ray “Kaliji” for 18 years is certified from Basics to Level 2. As founder of Breast Cancer Yoga, and as a survivor Diana wants to make a difference and offer hope, health and support.

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 For Breast Cancer "Let It Rise" Pose

Let It Rise Flowing Yoga Pose For Lymphedema

Breast Cancer Yoga presents a short flowing yoga pose for breast cancer recovery and lymphedema management. This exercise offers many benefits:
* Gentle stretch to shoulders and pectorals

* Post surgical benefits of adhesions and scar tissue

* Promotes blood and lymph flow to chest
* Increases shoulder range of motion
Visit our family website for more information on a complementary holistic approach to breast health and breast cancer recovery. Breast Cancer Yoga includes specific restorative yoga poses, supportive yoga props, a blend of aromatherapy oils, healing herbal teas and medicinal massage oils.
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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.

Arms Over Backbend Yoga Pose

Visit http://www.breastcanceryoga.com to learn more about yoga for breast cancer & lymphedema.

Introducing: Lorraine Aguilar, P.T., ERYT 500 Demonstrating Arms Over backbend. Lorraine is the director/founder of http://www.YogaFlowStudio.com .Lorraine has been a practicing Physical Therapist since 1991 and specializes in yoga therapeutics and orthopedic manual therapy. Lorraine has been practicing yoga since 1992 and teaching since 1995.

We wanted to introduce her style and enthusiasm of teaching this restorative yoga pose which we will call "Arms Over BackBend". This is great pose for those in recovery and for managing or preventing lymphedema.


Arm Over BackBend

BENEFITS
Quickly promotes inner calm
Elevates chest, and deepens breath
Promotes lymphatic drainage of breasts and pectoral muscles
Post surgical benefits of reducing fibrous adhesions and scar tissue

INSTRUCTIONS
1) Begin seated on the earth with your back to a large bolster and legs extended. A yoga  block can be used to support the head when in the full backbend.
2) Place a belt, shoulder distance around the forearms. Lengthen the spine and fold over the bolster. Lift and draws arms over head and feel yourself reaching and lengthening the side body,  and arms. The belt helps with the arms not separating out to side and creates a bit of resistance.
3) Feel your breath nice and full. Let your spine relax into the bolster so to enjoy this unfolding of the spine. If you wish  to go deeper you can remove the block but please do what is most comfortable.
4) When finished, rise up and come into a soft forward bend.

Visit our family operated website http://www.breastcanceryoga.com to learn more.

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

Anchored Boat Breast Cancer Yoga Pose

Diana Ross of Breast Cancer Yoga has shared a new pose for everyone to explore and especially recommended for breast cancer patients and survivors. Try it out and let us know how you like it!

Anchored Boat not only rebuilds but strengthens the muscles in your CORE region but it also tones your legs, shoulders and back muscles. You need to remain focused and relaxed in this intense balancing, and strengthening pose. Find your center and be present but most of all, have fun with this posture. If you find yourself becoming distracted with other thoughts or by the sheer intensity of the posture, bring your focus back to your breath and remember what it is like to be on a boat that flows without effort in the middle of the night amid turbulent seas.


Advantages:

• Strengthens and tones CORE and spinal muscles.
• Increases lymph flow to breast region.
• Teaches balancing of weight.
• Warms and invigorates the body.
• Cultivates determination and fortitude.
• Builds arm strength.
• Builds strong quadriceps and lower back muscles.
• Encourages proper spinal alignments.
• Stretches forearms and wrist.

Instructions

1. Begin seated on large round bolster with knees bent - lean back on hands with palms down on ground or on another prop (if needed) fingers pointed forward.
2. Root forearms so lower back lifts and spine lengthens.
3. EXHALE, with knees bent lift feet a few inches off the ground - legs together.
4. INHALE, and lower feet down.
5. Continue 3 more times. Then rest.
6. EXHALE, next bring knees and raise feet parallel to ground.
7. INHALE, and lower down. 
8. Continue 3 more times. Then rest.
9. EXHALE, bring knees up.
10.   INHALE and straighten legs (do not collapse back on arms).
11.   Continue 3 more times. Then rest.
12.   When finished rest forward.

 Breast Cancer Yoga has many therapeutic complementary products for breast cancer.

Breast Cancer Yoga DVD

Breast Cancer Yoga Therapeutic Products

Breast Cancer Yoga products offer true love and support for the receiver.

1. Start with the "Gentle Restorative Yoga" DVD practice, and the yoga is just that; gentle and restorative.
2. Next indulge in a well needed dry brush massage for exfoliating the skin and stimulating the lymphatic system.
3. Then take a soothing bath of pink bath salts. This will  replenish vital minerals for your body. 
4. After therapeutic bath, mist a calming aromatic spray of lavender to the skin and then apply the aloe vera cream (offered in gift basket) to moisture even more. 
5. Use the soft lotus candle for restful and soothing lighting. Available in our gift baskets. http://www.breastcanceryoga.com/GiftB...
6. There are four nourishing tea blends to explore Sleepy, Tummy, Sleep and Immune.
7. Additional items offered in our gift baskets are a beautiful tea cup, tea ball, 12 honey sticks, crystallized ginger and papaya.
8. The "Breath With Purpose" CD is an added pleasure for quieting the mind and healing the body. Use it while experiencing the quiet of your bath experience. 
9. Give the gift of love.

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Yoga Reduces Cancer Related Fatigue

Reduce Cancer-Related Fatigue, (CRF)
Fatigue is very common in breast cancer patients. Fatigue can prevent you from functioning normally and impacts the quality of life. Poor oxygenation due to improper breathing contributes also to low energy that causes listlessness and depression. Consider the following to reduce fatigue:

• Practicing specific flowing poses
• Breathing properly
• Eating well
• Getting enough rest will ultimately allow for energy to return

Breast Cancer Yoga has created a new yoga DVD that can be used for cancer related fatigue. This DVD contains unique restorative yoga poses that are gentle, flowing and meditative. The DVD's focus is on building strength, flexibility and potential for breast cancer recovery. Breast Cancer Yoga is designed to repair breast tissue, improve circulation of lymph and blood flow. It encourages feelings of safety and support through the use of props. Synchronized movement and breath create a mood of meditation, and relaxation. All combined there is increased vitality and hope. ​

How Can Women Use Yoga to Prevent Breast Cancer?

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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.

Breast Cancer Yoga Pose "Easy Twist"

Easy Twist Benefits For Breast Cancer

Because of the concentration required - this pose will elevate stress brought on by breast cancer treatments

Breast Cancer Yoga Easy Twist Pose For Breast Cancer & Lymphedema

Opens chest
Aids lymphatic drainage
Specific for Lymphedema

Reduces stress
Increases calm

Develops spine flexibility

 Improves posture and which can lead to greater self-confidence

Relieves backache

 Improves alignment which increases comfort level in own body

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10 Healthy Tips For Breast Cancer Well-Being

Diana Ross, E-RYT 500

Visit www.breastcanceryoga.com

Develop a healthy lifestyle by incorporating the following healthy tips. A suggested anticancer lifestyle is a lifestyle that includes a variety of exercise, organic foods and clean pure water.  There are a few easy steps to keep your body safe and healthy. Cultivate awareness of what goes into your body; stop and take notice of your habits.  Ask yourself "Is this good or bad for me?  Will it make me feel better or worse?" We all want to feel alive and vital. 

Here are some great suggestions

TIP ONE - START A YOGA PRACTICE Gentle or restorative yoga poses can be very healing if done with care and awareness. Once you receive clearance from your doctor to begin exercise, a gentle or restorative yoga practice may be very healing in stretching the area of the incision, the calming down of the stress attached to the surgery as well as bringing the ROM, (range of motion) back to the entire area of the chest.

 TIP TWO - LEARN HOW TO BREATHE Deep breathing is vital; it encourages the release of body toxins, and rebuilds healthy tissue. It is as simple as oxygen helping to nourish the body, the muscles, and organs which then provides relief from stress, fear and anxiety. 

 TIP THREE - TRY TO EAT A PLANT BASED DIET 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 which are duly noted to help prevent breast cancer or other cancers. 

 TIP FOUR - 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. 

TIP FIVE - USE AROMATHERAPY Lavender hydrosol is thought to have a cooling and soothing effect on sunburns or skin irritations, and it smells so relaxing. Aromatherapy can help you navigate the terrain of your healing journey from surviving to thriving during cancer recovery. Lavender hydrosol can be applied daily to skin to help soothe the mind, body & spirit. 

TIP SIX - TAKE A BATH IN PINK SALTS Bathing in a warm Himalayan crystal “pink salt” bath for 20+ minutes promotes deep relaxation, and helps to detox your body. This healthy salt bath can be considered as a complementary therapy if used with the intention to restore the body with its active 84 essential minerals and trace minerals. Taking regular saltwater baths with Himalayan pink salt will aid in detoxification, will strengthen the immune system, will heal skin diseases, relieve rheumatism and joint diseases, balance the skin's pH, and aid in recovery after surgery. 

TIP SEVEN - INCLUDE DAILY DRY BRUSHING 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. 

TIP EIGHT - BREATHE CLEAN AIR There are increasingly more studies that support the findings that everyday products found in our homes and in our water supply is responsible for the rising rates of breast cancer. You can reduce the pollutants in the air with air purification . It is proven that between dust mites, chemical emissions from various products, mold and spores, all of which contribute to higher increase in breast cancer.

 TIP NINE - USE ALKALINE WATER Advocates of alkaline water claim that by drinking alkaline water you can help to neutralize acid in your bloodstream, increase oxygen levels in your body and your energy level and metabolism. Ionized Water is a powerful antioxidant. Since ionized water is a liquid antioxidant, it is easily absorbed into the body which makes it much more effective and powerful antioxidant.

 TIP TEN - LOVE YOURSELF The body realizes all the care and love we give it. Bring yourself and your attention into the present moment by slowing down the “mind chatter.” Don’t anticipate negativity or dwell in fear. Stay focused on positive thoughts. Visualize a healthy future; see it, be it. Rent funny movies and laugh; laughter is good medicine. Teach yourself to relax the body. Train the mind to stay focused on the breath.

 Visit http://www.breastcanceryoga.com 

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Breast Cancer Yoga

 

Restorative Yoga Elements For Breast Cancer

 

3 Elements For Restorative Yoga

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.

Breast Cancer Gift Baskets

Offer True Love & Support For Breast Cancer

Visit http://www.breastcanceryoga.com 

Breast Cancer Yoga presents our holiday gift baskets. Our gifts offers many benefits: 

BENEFITS

*Creates inner calm 

*Quiet the mind 

*Recovery support 

A Soft Touch feels so good with this basket of all things soft and forgiving. A breathing CD to teach you how to quiet the mind, Calm and Tummy Tea Blends for their mellow and soothing effects. Mist your space with Simply Lavender while experiencing the soft light of the Lotus candle 

The Calm Practice is a collection of all things that create an inner calm. The Calm and Sleepy Tea Blends are for tension relief and encourages restfulness. A beautiful tea cup, mesh tea ball and delicious honey sticks are perfect. Spray the room with lavender, use the dry brush gloves, then take a reinvigorating bath, enjoy the lotus candle lighting while listening to how to breath for calmness. The DVD is there for you to do a restorative yoga practice with gentle flowing poses. 

The Kit and Caboodle offers true love and support of the recipient. Starting with a well needed dry brush for skin massage, then soothing bath salts that replenish vital minerals, a calming aromatic fragrance of lavender, soft candle lighting, nourishing tea blends and much more. The "Breath With Purpose" CD is an added pleasure for quieting the mind and the "Gentle Restorative Yoga" DVD is just that gentle and restorative. Visit http://www.breastcanceryoga.com

Visit our family website for more information on a complementary holistic approach to breast health and breast cancer recovery. Breast Cancer Yoga offers specific restorative yoga poses DVD, therapeutic breathing exercises CD's, supportive yoga props, a blend of aromatherapy oils, healing herbal teas and medicinal massage oils.

Visit

 http://www.breastcanceryoga.com
 

http://twitter.com/#!/BreastYoga
 

https://www.facebook.com/BreastCancerYoga

Yoga For Breast Cancer - Where To Begin!

Where do you begin? 

Not everyone is disciplined enough to do their yoga at home and others thrive with a home routine. There are some easy suggestions on how to start a yoga practice with this understanding of differences. Start slow, make sure you create a practice that can grow as you regain strength and stamina. 

• Find a place at home that is quiet and well ventilated. 
• Set a time each day or every other day that encourages a routine. 
• Find a competent yoga teacher that teaches to the cancer community or a special breast cancer yoga DVD. 
• Dress comfortably, there should be no constriction for the breath.  
• Eat a light breakfast at least a hour beforehand. 

Don’t be hard on yourself just persevere

It does get easier, and it is important to manage a self care practice. One of the many benefits of yoga therapy is that the practice awakens positive emotions, builds self-confidence and reduces depression. There is an openness of spirit that leads to greater understanding when the practice of yoga is embraced. This all can be achieved but there must be determination and fortitude.    

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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