Yoga: Alternative Cancer Treatment

This is a Guest Post by Krista Peterson

Those diagnosed with the potentially deadly disease often undergo rigorous treatment, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and tumor removal surgery. What many don’t realize, however, is that, at times, the hardest part of cancer is the side effects of the treatment.

Cancers with Mesothelioma symptoms, (mesothelioma is one of the rarest and deadliest cancers), have little hope for recovery. Life expectancy is generally very short, often only a few months. Yet, cancer patients are finding relief from side effects and a renewing of energy through alternative yoga therapy and alternative treatment.

Studies show that patients suffering from cancer side effects saw improvements after breathing and yoga exercises. A four-week program proved that those cancer patients who practiced yoga saw double the improvement in sleep quality and fatigue reduction, even while reducing their sleep medication dosage.

Astanga yoga, power yoga, vinyasa flow, Bikram yoga, and hot yoga may be too vigorous for some cancer patients, and it is important to become overworked. Restorative yoga is often a safer yoga type. Here are a few poses that may be useful.

Hasta Mudra

While sitting in a cross-legged position, gently press the tips of all fingers together, creating a globe shape. Remain this way for up to 15 minutes. This pose directs breath into the body.

Healing Mudra

Bring the tips of all five fingers together, creating a point, then touch that point to any part of the body that needs healing.

Dawn Mudra

Interlace the fingers with the left thumb above and press gently on the right thumb. Use blocks under the elbows for support when reclining. This increase immunity and endorphin release.

Remedies

Astragalus

Astragalus is the root of a plant commonly grown in China. The Chinese believe that a combination of astragalus and chemotherapy may slow tumor growth, improve immune system capabilities, and relieve some of the negative chemotherapy side effects.

Ukrain

Ukrain is derived from the combination of the chemotherapy drug Thiotepa and a common root called greater celandine. When administered intravenously, Ukrain may improve the quality of life and life expectancy of some patients.

Iscador

Iscador is a species of European Mistletoe. For centuries, mistletoe has been used to improve health. Iscador may be able to alter the composition of cancer cells, strengthen the immune system, and improve general well-being. It may prevent the cancer from metastasizing in some cases.

Mesothelioma, breast cancer, and prostate cancer claim thousands of lives every year. In fact, cancer is the second leading cause of death in the US. A proper diet, exercise, and relaxing, strength-building practices can lead to a better quality of life and a renewed sense of self. Yes, finding relief beyond cancer is possible.

About Krista Peterson

I am a 22 year old student, living in Orlando FL, working on getting my bachelors at the University of Central Florida. I aspire to be a writer and am particularly passionate about the health and wellness of our community. I have had many family members diagnosed with different kinds of cancers and various other issues which encouraged me to be a health and safety advocate. I have been practicing yoga for about 3 years now. Most recently hot vinyasa yoga and I absolutely love it.

Krista Peterson can be contacted at: krista.peterson925@gmail.com