The Three Degrees of Exercise for Cancer Treatment (guest blogger)

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.