I was recently contacted by Melanie Bowen regarding an article she had written. With cancer effecting so many people, I couldn't turn it down! Melanie is currently a Master's student with a passion that
stems from her grandmother's cancer diagnosis. She often highlights
the great benefits of alternative nutritional, emotional, and
physical treatments on those diagnosed with cancer or other serious
illness. To read more from Melanie, visit her blog
for the Mesothelioma Cancer Alliance. In her spare time, you can
find Melanie trying new vegan recipes, on her yoga mat, or spending
time with her family.
I highly recommend you visiting her blog. There is so much more information. Without further ado.... Here is melanie's article! Thanks again Melanie!
The Three
Degrees of Exercise for Cancer Treatment
In
each stage of cancer treatment and recovery, exercise plays an important role
in replenishing the body with nutrients, oxygen and eliminating the waste
products of metabolism. Numerous Studies on exercise and cancer have identified
the enormous benefits that deep breathing, stretching and aerobic exercise can
provide. To gain the benefits of exercise safely, consult your physician on
your exercise plan of care.
Beginner – Breathing
Exercises
Breathing
exercises are a great way for patients looking to begin a regular exercise
routine. It is a simple activity that should not leave you breathless and can
be done practically anywhere. Deep breathing prevents the collapsing of air
sacs in the lungs and promotes the exchange of oxygen in the blood. For certain
cancer patients, such as those with a prognosis of
mesothelioma, respiratory function may be impaired making strenuous
activities more difficult. Due to this complication, breathing exercises are an
ideal place to start.
Incorporating
deep breathing is vital to ensure the body cells are supplied with adequate
oxygen for healing, normal function and eliminating waste products. Breathe in
slowly through the nose until the maximum amount of lung volume is achieved.
Slowly exhale via pursed lips until the lungs are sufficiently empty. By doing
so, patients will strengthen their lung function which will improve blood flow
and circulation, and overall quality of life.
Moderate – Yoga
For
those who are recovering and regaining strength, taking on moderate exercise
such as yoga is the next important step of the healing process. This level of
activity may be described as breaking a sweat after about ten minutes of motion
and being able to converse without being out of breath.
Yoga
is being recognized and acknowledged the medical community. In fact, numerous
studies have suggested the benefits of yoga for cancer patients. These benefits
include decreased fatigue, improved blood flow and circulation, improved
flexibility, mood, and sleep. Yoga programs are now offered by cancer centers as
an supplement to traditional cancer therapies. There are many different
variations of yoga such as, power yoga, kundalini yoga, bikram yoga, and
tibetan yoga, some of which that may be more suitable than others.
Advanced – Weight Lifting
In
the later stages of recovery, advanced exercises such as weight training, are
important for you to regain muscle mass, strength and stamina. This level of
exercise will result in rapid and deep breathing, a sweat after a few minutes
and eventually a light sweat as the body adjusts to the level of activity. Medical
interventions and long periods of inactivity can atrophy muscles and decrease
endurance. Prostate, stomach and cancer of the head and neck frequently reduce
the amount of skeletal muscle. The National Cancer Institute recommends that
survivors use strengthening exercises to restore the muscle loss.
Weight
lifting has seen some promising results in the breast cancer community. Many
women experience lymphedema or swelling of the arms, due to a build of lymph,
after surgery. Studies have shown that women who
engage in weight training can
reap many benefits, including alleviating lymphedema. Even after you have
received a clean bill of health, staying physically fit and maintaining a
healthy body should always remain a clear and constant goal.
Exercise for All Stages of
Cancer Recovery
Exercise
can help heal, regain strength and improve endurance in all stages of cancer
recovery. Exercise should not be viewed as an activity that only fit people
engage in. Regular physical activity has shown benefits for even those recently
diagnosed, in treatment, or in recovery. It is important you consult a
physician when employing any exercise into a plan of care. Maximize the
benefits of a high-quality life with the benefits of exercise.
