The fight against cancer is a very difficult one. The most challenging test of life may be the severe pain and exhaustion that follow its treatment. This is because dealing with a cancer diagnosis and undergoing treatment can cause severe emotional trauma and lower functional quality of life. One might search for simple endurance measures.
On the occasion of World Cancer Day, CitySpidey brings to you five specific postures which are ideal and mandatory for people suffering from different types of cancer.
Ardha Surya Namaskar (Half Sun Salutation)
Also read: Intensify action to strengthen health system to prevent cancer: Dr. Poonam
The posture warms up the body, opens the hips, and improves circulation
- Stand straight with your legs close.
- Press your palms together, ensure shoulders are down and back.
- Look ahead, chin straight. Now, inhale deeply and raise your pressed arms above the head.
- Feel the stretch and on exhaling, bend at the waist to bring your palms towards the feet.
- You can bend your knees if desired.
- Touch the fingertips with your toes, keep your back straight.
- Inhale, return to the standing position.
- Repeat the salutation as many times as you choose.
Supta Baddha Konasana (Reclining Butterfly Pose)
The posture relieves tension in the shoulders and chest. It is particularly effective for breast cancer recovery
- Bring your feet together, with the knees bent.
- Allow the knees to fall away from your hips; let gravity pull your knees down.
- Now slowly lean back as you exhale.
- Let your lower back rest on the cushions behind you and bring the upper back towards the floor.
- Support your head with another cushion if desired.
- Rest your arms on the floor, palms facing up.
- Breathe deeply in the posture for about 15-20 minutes.
Viparita Karani (Legs up the wall)
It works well at rejuvenating your mind while improving circulation
- Lie on your back with your legs propped up against a wall.
- Make a 90-degree angle with your body with the legs resting flat on the wall’s surface.
- Place a cushion beneath your lower back for comfort.
- Concentrate on your breathing for about 20 minutes.
Bitilasana Marjaryasana (Cat-Cow pose)
This posture improves flexibility in your back while revitalising you.
- Start the pose on your hands and knees.
- Exhale, curve your spine outwards.
- Look up during this movement.
- Inhale, curve your back inwards.
- Face downwards.
- Repeat the movements as often as possible.
Savasana (Corpse pose)
Though considered as one of the most challenging poses, it gives you total relaxation.
- Lie down on the floor, on your back.
- Place your hands at your side, palms up.
- Slowly relax every part of your body.
- Concentrate on each part while you let yourself feel lighter.
- Breathe deeply and steadily.
- Retain the posture until you achieve complete relaxation.
Benefits of yoga in cancer patients
1. Lower fatigue
Several studies have shown a significant decrease in fatigue through the use of yoga in cancer patients.
2. Reduce stress
Battling with a life-threatening disease can be physically, mentally and emotionally exhausting, Simple meditation can help in the reduction of stress.
3. Lower risk of re-occurrence.
Yoga results in decreased body fat density, which can help to reduce the risk of cancer recurrence.
4. Better sleep
A combination of physical and emotional stress can hinder your good night's sleep. Yoga helps you loosen your nerves and make you relax
5. Pain tolerance
The crippling pain of chemotherapy and several medications can affect anybody’s ability to move, let alone engage in daily activities. Performing these poses can help you in bearing pain.