Yoga’s Benefits for Cancer Survivors: Clinical Trial Insights

Cancer survivors often find themselves facing physical and emotional hurdles even after overcoming the disease. However, yoga could play a key role in addressing these issues according to a recent clinical trial. The study highlighted yoga’s potential to alleviate symptoms such as insomnia, fatigue, and mood disturbances in cancer survivors post-remission.

Persistent Challenges After Cancer

Mood disturbances and insomnia are common side effects that cancer survivors endure long after their treatment concludes. These issues can significantly restrict their day-to-day activities, as noted in the Journal of Clinical Oncology. A study funded by the National Cancer Institute compared cancer survivors receiving standard care to those who also participated in the Yoga for Cancer Survivors (YOCAS) program. It found that yoga significantly improved the condition of most participants, who primarily included female breast-cancer survivors.

YOCAS: A Specific Yoga Program

YOCAS is a four-week program incorporating two yoga types: hatha, a more dynamic form, and restorative, which is gentler. Participants practiced yoga for an average of 180 minutes each week, spread across three sessions. These yoga practices included slow, gentle movements, breathing exercises, and mindfulness.

Study Findings

By the end of the study, those in the YOCAS group noted improvements in mood, anxiety, and fatigue. The control group, which received standard care, did not experience the same benefits. Researchers suggested that these improvements might be due to combined alleviation of mood disturbances and fatigue.

“An important advance because it offers survivors, who are likely already managing multiple medications, a non-pharmaceutical solution for reducing four different side effects at once,” said Dr. Fumiko Chino, a cancer researcher and associate professor.

The Role of Yoga in Cancer Recovery

Timothy Pearman, Ph.D., director of supportive oncology at the Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, emphasized that yoga is among the most researched interventions for managing cancer-related fatigue and mood issues. His insights reflect his personal connection as his wife is a yoga teacher trained in a program focused on yoga for cancer patients.

Yoga presents a flexible and affordable exercise option since it requires minimal equipment and can be adapted to suit individual capabilities. In addition, it can address other cancer treatment-related issues, such as osteoporosis and cardiac problems, enhancing balance and stamina.

Psychosocial Benefits of Yoga

Shari Botwin, a social worker and thyroid cancer survivor, talked about her transformative experience with yoga. She shared that yoga does more than provide physical relief; it offers emotional support and a community of peers who understand the journey of cancer recovery.

For some survivors, yoga can change self-perception, allowing for self-compassion instead of shame. This is particularly valuable for those dealing with body image issues post-treatment.

Pearman noted that free yoga classes are available through various non-profit organizations, giving survivors an accessible means to engage with the practice.