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Understanding post-cancer pain Many cancer survivors experience persistent pain even after completing treatment. This pain can be physical, emotional, or a combination of both. Managing post-cancer pain is crucial for improving quality of life and overall well-being. One technique that has shown promise in pain management is Tai Chi. Benefits of Tai Chi movements Tai Chi, an ancient Chinese martial art, combines slow, flowing movements with deep breathing and mindfulness. Its gentle, low-impact nature makes it well-suited for cancer survivors, regardless of age or fitness level. The practice of Tai Chi has been found to provide several benefits for pain management: Reduced pain: Tai Chi's gentle movements can help alleviate pain by promoting relaxation, improving circulation, and releasing tension in the body. It can also help increase flexibility and range of motion, reducing discomfort caused by muscle stiffness or joint problems. Improved balance and stability: Cancer treatments and surgeries can sometimes affect balance and coordination. Tai Chi's focus on body awareness, posture, and weight shifting can enhance stability and reduce the risk of falls, which is particularly important for survivors who may experience side effects like neuropathy or weakened muscles. Stress reduction: Tai Chi incorporates mindfulness and deep breathing, promoting relaxation and reducing stress levels. By managing stress, cancer survivors can better cope with pain and enhance their overall well-being. Enhanced mental and emotional well-being: Cancer survivors often experience anxiety, depression, or emotional distress. Tai Chi's meditative aspect and mind-body connection can help improve mood, boost self-esteem, and promote a sense of calm and inner peace. Exercising after cancer Engaging in regular exercise is essential for cancer survivors, but it's crucial to choose activities that are safe and beneficial for their specific needs. Tai Chi offers a gentle yet effective form of exercise that addresses pain management, physical conditioning, and mental well-being. Before starting any exercise program, it is important to consult with your healthcare providers. They can provide guidance on adapting Tai Chi movements to your own abilities and ensure any precautions or modifications are taken into account. Tai Chi’s gentle movements, focus on mindfulness, and mind-body connection make it a suitable and effective practice if you’re looking to alleviate post-cancer pain, improve physical function, and enhance overall well-being. By incorporating Tai Chi into your routine, you can take an active role in your pain management journey and experience the transformative benefits this ancient practice has to offer. Get started with The After Cancer

Building a supportive community with fellow survivors Group therapy can provide invaluable support and companionship for cancer survivors. Connecting with individuals who have gone through similar experiences creates a sense of understanding and empathy. Sharing stories, fears, and triumphs in a safe and supportive environment can help combat feelings of isolation and loneliness. Life after cancer needs practical guidance Group therapy offers practical guidance for life after cancer. Discussions and shared experiences can provide insights into managing post-cancer challenges such as transitioning back to work, rebuilding relationships, addressing financial concerns, and coping with long-term side effects. Group members can offer advice, tips, and resources based on their own journeys, empowering individuals to navigate the complexities of survivorship. Keep caring about yourself Through group discussions and activities, participants are encouraged to prioritize their mental, emotional, and physical well-being, which encourages self-care and personal growth. Through group therapy, you can learn coping strategies, stress management techniques, and ways to improve self-esteem. By investing in self-care, you can foster resilience, enhance your quality of life, and continue to thrive beyond cancer. In group therapy, members not only receive support but also learn to provide support to others. This reciprocal dynamic fosters a sense of purpose and fulfillment, promoting a positive mindset and personal growth. It also allows individuals to develop and enhance their interpersonal skills, empathy, and emotional intelligence. Cancer survivors can get several benefits from group therapy. It provides a supportive community, practical guidance for life after cancer, and encourages self-care and personal growth. The shared experiences and understanding within the group setting create a unique environment where individuals can heal, learn, and thrive together. If you are a cancer survivor seeking support, consider exploring group therapy as a valuable resource on your journey towards a fulfilling and empowered life beyond cancer. Get started with The After Cancer

Meditation and cancer Meditation, a practice that focuses on calming the mind and cultivating present-moment awareness, has shown promise in providing numerous benefits for cancer patients. It can help reduce stress, improve emotional well-being, and enhance overall quality of life. By incorporating meditation into your routine, you can experience a sense of calm, inner peace, and greater emotional resilience. Anxiety issues are usual for cancer patients and meditation can help control them Anxiety is a common emotional response among cancer patients, stemming from the uncertainties, fear of treatment, and the impact of the diagnosis on their lives. Fortunately, meditation can be a valuable tool for managing anxiety. There are various types of meditation practices, each offering unique approaches to calming the mind and cultivating inner peace. Here are a few commonly practiced types of meditation: Mindfulness meditation: This practice involves focusing your attention on the present moment, observing thoughts, emotions, and bodily sensations without judgment. It helps develop awareness and acceptance of the present experience. Guided meditations: Consider using guided meditation resources, such as smartphone apps or online videos. These provide step-by-step instructions and soothing voiceovers to guide you through the meditation process. Guided visualization: This meditation practice involves using visual imagery to create a mental picture of a peaceful scene or desired outcome. It helps promote relaxation, reduce stress, and enhance focus and clarity. Body scan meditation: This technique involves systematically bringing attention to different parts of the body, observing sensations, and releasing tension. It promotes relaxation, body awareness, and mindfulness of physical sensations. Breath Awareness Meditation: This practice focuses on observing the breath, noticing the sensation of inhaling and exhaling. It helps cultivate concentration, calm the mind, and anchor attention in the present moment. How to meditate? Here is a three-step meditation that you can use to help with anxiety: Find a quiet space: Choose a quiet and comfortable place where you can sit or lie down without distractions. This will allow you to focus and fully immerse yourself in the meditation practice. Close your eyes. Begin with deep breathing: Start by taking slow, deep breaths. Inhale deeply through your nose, hold your breath for a few seconds, and then exhale slowly through your mouth. This deep breathing technique helps relax your body and prepares you for meditation. Focus on the present moment: Direct your attention to the present moment, observing your thoughts, emotions, and bodily sensations without judgment. Allow them to come and go, gently bringing your focus back to the present whenever your mind wanders. By incorporating meditation into your routine and adopting strategies for emotional care, you can effectively manage anxiety and enhance your overall well-being. Remember, each individual's journey is unique. Exploring different types of meditation can help you find the approach that resonates best with you and supports your unique needs and goals. Get started with The After Cancer

The emotional response to a cancer diagnosis Receiving a cancer diagnosis can be an overwhelming and life-altering experience. It is natural for cancer patients to experience a range of emotions during this time. Some of the most common emotions after a cancer diagnosis include: Shock and denial: Many individuals initially experience a sense of shock or disbelief upon hearing the diagnosis. Denial may also be present as a defense mechanism to protect oneself from the overwhelming reality. Fear and anxiety: Cancer brings with it a multitude of uncertainties, which can trigger feelings of fear and anxiety. Worries about the future, treatment outcomes, and the impact on loved ones often contribute to these emotions. Sadness and grief: A cancer diagnosis often involves grieving the loss of one's health and the disruption it brings to daily life. Feelings of sadness, sadness, and mourning may arise as individuals come to terms with their new reality. The common emotions during the treatment phase The treatment phase of cancer can be physically and emotionally demanding, and it often elicits a wide range of emotions. Here are some common emotions experienced by cancer patients during treatment: Anger and frustration: Dealing with the challenges and disruptions caused by cancer treatment can lead to feelings of anger and frustration. These emotions may arise from the physical discomfort, changes in daily routines, or the loss of control over one's life. Hope and determination: Amidst the difficult moments, many cancer patients find strength in hope and determination. This positive mindset helps them stay resilient and focused on their treatment goals, fostering a sense of empowerment. Vulnerability and uncertainty: Cancer treatment often involves medical procedures, side effects, and lifestyle changes that can make patients feel vulnerable. The uncertainty of treatment outcomes and the impact on future plans can contribute to these feelings. What emotions to expect after treatments Completing cancer treatment does not necessarily mean an end to emotional challenges. Cancer survivors may experience a unique set of emotions after treatment, including: Relief and gratitude: Completing treatment successfully can bring a sense of relief and gratitude. Survivors may feel thankful for their healthcare team's support and for reaching this milestone in their journey. Uncertainty and fear of recurrence: The fear of cancer recurrence is a common concern for survivors. The uncertainty of the future can trigger anxiety and worry, even after treatment is completed. Adjustment and uncertainty: Life after cancer treatment may require adjusting to physical, emotional, and social changes. It is normal to feel uncertain about the "new normal" and how to navigate the post-treatment phase. Coping with cancer emotions Coping with the emotional stages of cancer requires individualized strategies and support. Here are some helpful coping mechanisms: Seek Support: Reach out to loved ones or support groups who specialize in cancer. Sharing your emotions and concerns with others who have similar experiences can provide comfort and guidance. Self-Care: Engage in activities that promote emotional well-being, such as exercise, meditation, journaling, or pursuing hobbies that bring joy and relaxation. Communicate openly: Effective communication with healthcare providers, family, and friends is crucial. Expressing your emotions, asking questions, and discussing concerns can help you navigate the emotional journey more effectively. Educate yourself: Knowledge is empowering. Learning about your cancer, treatment options, and potential side effects can help you feel more in control and better prepared to face challenges. Professional help: If feelings of sadness, anxiety, or other emotional difficulties become overwhelming or significantly impact daily life, consider seeking professional help. Mental health professionals can provide valuable support and guidance tailored to your needs. Remember, every individual's emotional journey with cancer is unique. It is important to give yourself permission to experience and process your emotions. Be patient with yourself and seek the support and resources available to help you navigate the emotional challenges and find strength as you move forward on your cancer journey. Get started with The After Cancer

Many cancer survivors experience PTSD, which can cause symptoms like flashbacks, nightmares, anxiety, and depression. It's important to know that PTSD is a treatable condition, and there are steps you can take to manage it. One of the most effective ways to manage PTSD after cancer is to seek support. This can come in many forms, such as talking to a therapist, joining a support group, or connecting with loved ones. It's important to find a support system that works for you and to communicate openly with those around you about your needs. Another helpful strategy for managing PTSD is to practice self-care. This can include activities such as exercise, meditation, journaling, or spending time in nature. Taking care of your physical and emotional well-being can help you feel more grounded and better able to cope with the effects of PTSD. In some cases, medication may be necessary to manage PTSD symptoms. Antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications can help alleviate symptoms like anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances. If you're considering medication, it's important to talk to a healthcare provider to determine the best treatment plan for you. It's important to remember that PTSD is a normal response to a traumatic event, and seeking help is a sign of strength. With the right support and self-care, it's possible to manage PTSD after cancer and move forward with your life. Get started with The After Cancer

For cancer survivors, regular scans are a necessary part of follow-up care. However, the anxiety and fear that come with these scans can be overwhelming, leading to what is commonly referred to as "scanxiety." Scanxiety is the fear and worry that arise before, during, and after cancer scans. It is a common feeling among cancer survivors, as scans can bring back memories of the cancer diagnosis and treatment, and can also lead to uncertainty about the future. Here are some tips to help cope with scanxiety: Talk to your healthcare provider: Your healthcare team can provide information about the scan, what to expect, and the purpose of the test. This can help alleviate some of the unknowns that are causing anxiety. Plan for the day of the scan: Consider bringing a friend or loved one with you to the appointment. Having someone to talk to and support you can help ease anxiety. You can also plan to do something enjoyable after the scan, such as a favorite activity or meal. Practice relaxation techniques: Deep breathing, meditation, and other relaxation techniques can help reduce anxiety and calm your mind. Practice these techniques leading up to the scan and during the scan. Seek support: Talk to others who have gone through similar experiences. Joining a support group or reaching out to a counselor can provide a sense of community and understanding. It is important to remember that scanxiety is normal and understandable. However, it is also important to manage these feelings in a healthy way. By taking steps to cope with scanxiety, cancer survivors can approach scans with a sense of calm and control. In conclusion, scanxiety can be a challenging experience for cancer survivors. However, with the right support and coping strategies, it is possible to manage the fear and anxiety that come with regular cancer scans. Get started with The After Cancer

The emotional response to cancer Cancer can be a life-changing experience that can cause significant stress and anxiety. Many cancer patients find themselves struggling with feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and despair, all of which are signs of depression. Cancer depression can make it difficult to engage in daily activities and can impact the quality of life. Depression can also make it more challenging to follow through with cancer treatment plans, making it a significant concern for cancer patients and their healthcare providers. Anxiety is another common emotional response to cancer diagnosis and treatment. Cancer anxiety can take many forms, from generalized anxiety to panic attacks. It's not uncommon for cancer patients to experience significant anxiety, including worrying about their treatment, fearing the recurrence of cancer, and worrying about their future. Cancer anxiety can also be challenging to manage, and it can impact a person's ability to follow through with their cancer treatment. Depression and anxiety after cancer Even after successful cancer treatment, many patients continue to experience depression and anxiety. Post-cancer depression and anxiety are common and can be challenging to manage. The fear of cancer recurrence, the financial impact of cancer treatment, and the loss of social support can all contribute to depression and anxiety in cancer survivors. Family members and loved ones may also experience depression and anxiety as they have lived with cancer patients. Managing depression and anxiety The good news is that there are effective treatments available for depression and anxiety in cancer patients. Cognitive-behavioral therapy, medication, and support groups can all be helpful for managing depression and anxiety. Talk to us about their symptoms and concerns. We can provide guidance and support for managing depression and anxiety, and refer you to mental health professionals who specialize in working with cancer patients. Caregivers can also play a critical role in supporting cancer patients with depression and anxiety. Providing emotional support, helping with daily tasks, and encouraging cancer patients to seek help can all be helpful in managing depression and anxiety. Family members and loved ones should also take care of themselves and seek support as needed. Conclusion Cancer depression and anxiety are common and can be challenging to manage, but there are effective treatments available. It's essential for cancer patients to talk to healthcare providers about their symptoms and concerns and to seek support from mental health professionals as needed. Family members and loved ones can also play a critical role in supporting cancer patients with depression and anxiety. With the right support and treatment, cancer patients can manage depression and anxiety and live a fulfilling life beyond cancer. Get started with The After Cancer

Restore joy and well-being with dance Dance therapy is a unique and expressive form of therapy that offers numerous benefits to cancer survivors. It combines the physicality of movement with the emotional and psychological aspects of healing. Engaging in dance can help restore joy, boost self-esteem, reduce stress, and enhance overall well-being. Through dance, you can tap into your inner creativity and find a sense of liberation and empowerment. Finding your rhythm Dance therapy provides a safe and supportive environment for cancer survivors to explore their bodies and emotions. It encourages participants to move freely and express themselves without judgment. Dancing allows you to connect with your body in a positive and healing way, rebuilding your sense of self and reclaiming your physicality. Dance therapy sessions are often guided by trained professionals who create a nurturing space to explore various movements and styles. You are encouraged to find your own rhythm, regardless of your level of dance experience. The focus is on the process, not the outcome, allowing you to express yourself authentically and find support in the art of movement. Types of therapy for cancer survivors There are various types of dance therapy available for cancer survivors, including improvisational dance, expressive dance, and choreographed routines. Improvisational dance focuses on spontaneous movement and encourages survivors to express their emotions freely. Expressive dance allows you to communicate your experiences and feelings through specific movements and gestures. Choreographed routines provide structure and allow you to learn and perform dance sequences, fostering a sense of accomplishment and boosting self-confidence. In addition to the physical and emotional benefits, dance therapy also offers social connections and a sense of community. With group sessions, you can connect with others who have had similar experiences, providing support and understanding in a non-verbal and creative way. Dance therapy has the power to heal, uplift, and empower cancer survivors. Through movement and expression, you can restore joy and find a renewed sense of well-being. Dance therapy offers a holistic approach to healing, addressing the physical, emotional, and social aspects of recovery. Whether it's through improvisation, expression, or choreography, dance therapy provides a transformative experience that goes beyond words. It invites you to embark on a healing journey, embracing the transformative power of dance and finding comfort in your own unique rhythm. Get started with The After Cancer

The healing power of running Participating in marathons can have a transformative effect on cancer survivors, offering physical and emotional benefits that go beyond the act of running. Engaging in regular exercise, such as training for a marathon, can enhance cardiovascular health, strengthen muscles, and improve overall fitness. It can also boost energy levels, reduce fatigue, and promote a sense of accomplishment and empowerment. Join the marathon community Marathons provide an opportunity for cancer survivors to connect with a supportive and inclusive community. Being surrounded by fellow runners who understand the challenges you have faced, can create a powerful sense of camaraderie and support. The marathon community embraces individuals from diverse backgrounds and abilities, fostering an environment where everyone's journey is celebrated. Participating in marathons also allows you to raise awareness and funds for cancer research, advocacy, and support organizations. Engaging in such meaningful causes can give you a sense of purpose and a way to contribute to the greater good. Physical and mental care after cancer Training for a marathon requires discipline and commitment. By engaging in regular exercise, cancer survivors can enhance their physical well-being, improve their immune system, and reduce the risk of recurrence. Running can also be a powerful stress reliever, helping to manage anxiety, depression, and other emotional challenges that may arise post-cancer. However, it is essential to prioritize your physical and mental health throughout your marathon journey. This includes listening to your body, seeking guidance from healthcare professionals, and engaging in self-care practices such as proper nutrition, rest, and recovery. It is crucial to strike a balance between training and taking care of oneself to prevent overexertion and injury. Marathons for cancer survivors offer a unique opportunity for physical and emotional healing. The act of running, coupled with the supportive marathon community, can empower you to embrace your strength, resilience, and post-cancer journey. Engaging in regular exercise not only improves physical health but also boosts self-confidence and overall well-being. But it is important to approach marathon training with caution, ensuring proper physical and mental care along the way. By taking these empowering steps, you can continue to thrive and inspire others through your remarkable journey. Get started with The After Cancer

Tierney Landgon was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2018. As a super active person, she had to learn how to slow down, hear her body and cope with her cancer journey. The benefits of yoga I didn’t know these benefits when I started yoga as a dance student. I just knew I enjoyed it and I felt good afterward. I am now able to connect much of my healing to the lifestyle changes I have made since becoming a yoga teacher. I didn’t know the benefits of yoga when I incorporated it into my life with cancer. I knew I needed positive energy. I knew I needed to get away from toxicity and “dis-ease.” So, I followed my intuition and that is where yoga came in to save my life. According to John Hopkins Medicine there are 9 benefits of yoga: Improvement in strength, flexibility, and balance Aids in relieving back pain Eases arthritis symptoms Benefits heart health Relaxes your body to help you sleep better Can bring more energy and brighter moods. Minimizes the body’s stress response. Connects you to a community of support Promotes self-care that is effective. According to an article reviewed by Carol DerSarkissian, MD many poses in yoga have strong health-beneficial connections. I will give examples of 2 poses that are quite different from each other. Child’s Pose has been known to help: Relieve back pain by relaxing the back muscles Increase blood flow to your head and neck Stimulate digestion and relieve constipation and Calm the nervous system Inversions from a simple down dog to a head or handstand have been known to help: Cleanse the lymphatic system Alleviate back pain Minimize muscle spasms Give relief to compressed disks Ease sciatica pain These are only 2 asanas that are often used in yoga, and they offer a host of benefits. According to the American Osteopathic Association, it is believed that practicing disciplines of yoga can help a person manage their stress and minimize the negative effects that stress can have on the body and mind. Yoga helps us become more mindful and aware of the messages our bodies send. Yoga has been known to be effective in developing coping skills and having a more positive outlook on life. Regular yoga practice can create mental clarity and calmness, increases body awareness, relieve chronic stress patterns, and sharpens your ability to concentrate. I can say for myself that my daily practice of yoga is what keeps my mental health in a healthy state and allows me to be aware of my emotions when my mental health does struggle. How to start your yoga practice as a cancer patient The word yoga according to Yoga Journal, means “to yolk, or be in union.” When you practice yoga, you are connecting your breath to your body’s movement. We forget how integral our breath is for our health and for the quality of our life. The ability to focus on breath and connect it to movement I feel is where the physical benefits of yoga meet the mental health benefits of healing. I have conversations with people who have been told by physicians, counselors, and other medical professionals to “try yoga.” They try yoga maybe one time, attending a random class that may or not meet them where they are. This leaves them feeling defeated and then having negative thoughts toward the physical practice of yoga. This is not the way to get people to experience the positive benefits of yoga. My advice to people is to start with YIN or RESTORATIVE Yoga. In my town, we even have GOAT Yoga, which is a fun way to be introduced to yoga. Something slow and steady, where you begin to learn how to be still in your body and focus on the abilities of the mind. Yoga is not a one size fits all activity, but I do believe that yoga is for everyone. I believe as a mental health professional, that by incorporating breathwork, guided meditations, and yoga asanas we can help people have an improved mental state. I am a part of an organization that focuses on yoga for cancer patients. Through the certification of the Christina Phipps Foundation, I am able to deliver a personal yoga practice specific to the person who is actively fighting cancer. The practice of yoga will look different for each cancer patient. The healing benefits and positive energy a daily practice of yoga can bring, positive changes to one's life, regardless of life’s circumstances. I didn’t know that yoga was going to be my lifesaver when I started. The acts of breathwork, meditation, and asanas (poses) have become integral in my journey to fight cancer with IV chemo, double mastectomy, and reconstruction. One day at a time as I went through the hardest battle of my life, I began to see where yoga was saving me from a mindset of devastation and defeat. Yoga was my light in my darkest time. Yoga was able to take scary situations like a CT scan where you lay hooked up to a noisy machine in a cold yellow room and turn it into a confidence-boosting event. I came into my cancer journey a small, scared, angry, shell of a human. I came out on the other side strong, brave, and free from cancer. It has not been easy, and life after cancer continues to throw a host of unpleasant surprises into one’s life. I believe that because I now have a lifestyle rooted in yoga principles and practices alongside Faith in a Power Greater Than myself, gives me a light inside that shines brighter than ever before. It’s neat to reflect on life events and see how some things that seem so random and make no sense can be the thread that has created the cape I wear proudly today. There are still many days when the memories of my trauma leave me frozen. I have a hard time going back to the Cancer Center for checkups. I can be easily triggered by the smallest encounter on those days. The good news is that I am a cancer survivor today. The checkups are fewer and shorter, and I have so far continued to have clear scans. So, after the shock has worn off and the trigger is gone, I have a safe space called my yoga room to go into and do all the healing that my body, mind, and soul ask of me. I will thank cancer for helping me find my healing toolbox. I thank Yoga for being the light in my toolbox and bringing me back to nature! Thank you, Yoga! Get started with The After Cancer

Cancer can leave a significant impact on the body, and exercise can play a crucial role in helping cancer patients recover both physically and emotionally. Exercising can be a great way for cancer patients to manage fatigue, improve their mood, and maintain their physical health. However, it is important to choose the right types of physical exercise that can help alleviate cancer symptoms and support recovery. In this article, we will discuss the types of physical exercise that cancer patients should do. Yoga Yoga is an excellent form of exercise for cancer patients. It can help manage stress and anxiety, improve flexibility, and reduce fatigue. There are specific types of yoga, such as restorative yoga, that are better suited for cancer patients who are recovering from surgery or undergoing chemotherapy. Restorative yoga is a gentle form of yoga that focuses on deep breathing, relaxation, and stretching. It is a great way to release tension and stress, which can be helpful during cancer treatment. Strength training Strength training can be a beneficial form of exercise for cancer patients, particularly those who have lost muscle mass during treatment. Building muscle strength can help improve overall physical functioning, which can make daily tasks easier. It can also improve balance, which can be helpful for cancer patients who are at a higher risk of falls due to weakened bones. Walking Walking is a low-impact form of exercise that can be done by cancer patients of all ages and fitness levels. It is an excellent way to improve cardiovascular health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Walking can also be a great way to manage stress and anxiety, which can be common during cancer treatment. Start with short walks and gradually increase the distance and duration as you feel more comfortable. Swimming Swimming is a low-impact form of exercise that can be particularly helpful for cancer patients who have joint pain or mobility issues. It is a great way to improve cardiovascular health, build muscle strength, and reduce stress. Swimming can also be a great way to stay cool during the summer months, which can be particularly helpful for cancer patients who are experiencing hot flashes due to treatment. Tai Chi Tai Chi is a gentle form of exercise that involves slow, flowing movements. It can help improve balance, flexibility, and overall physical functioning. Tai Chi has also been shown to be helpful in managing stress, anxiety, and depression, which can be common during cancer treatment. Conclusion Physical exercise can play an important role in the recovery of cancer patients. However, it is important to choose the right types of exercise that can help alleviate cancer symptoms and support recovery. Yoga, strength training, walking, swimming, and Tai Chi are all great forms of exercise that can be helpful for cancer patients. It is essential to talk to your doctor before starting any exercise program to ensure that it is safe and appropriate for your specific situation. By incorporating exercise into your recovery plan, you can improve your physical health, manage stress and anxiety, and improve your overall quality of life. Get started with The After Cancer to start practicing exercise

Exercise is one of the most beneficial activities that cancer patients and survivors can do for their physical and mental well-being. While cancer and its treatments can cause a wide range of physical and emotional challenges, incorporating exercise into daily life can help reduce the severity of these challenges and improve overall health. In this article, we'll explore the benefits of exercising for cancer patients and survivors, including how it can help improve physical function, mental health, and overall quality of life. Improve Physical Function Cancer treatments like chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery can weaken the body and cause a range of physical challenges, including fatigue, muscle weakness, and joint pain. But regular exercise can help rebuild physical function and strength. Exercise can help improve cardiovascular function, muscle strength, and flexibility, making it easier to perform daily activities. Reduce cancer-related fatigue Cancer-related fatigue is one of the most common and distressing side effects of cancer treatment. This type of fatigue can last for months after treatment ends and can significantly impact a patient's ability to function. Studies have shown that exercise can help reduce cancer-related fatigue, making it easier to manage daily activities and maintain the overall quality of life. Manage cancer-related symptoms Exercise has also been shown to help manage other cancer-related symptoms like pain, nausea, and insomnia. Regular exercise can help reduce inflammation in the body, which is associated with many cancer-related symptoms. Additionally, exercise can help improve appetite, which can be particularly helpful for patients who have lost weight during cancer treatment. Boost mental health Cancer and its treatments can take a significant toll on a patient's mental health, causing anxiety, depression, and stress. Exercise has been shown to help alleviate these symptoms by boosting the production of endorphins, which are natural mood boosters. Additionally, exercise can help reduce stress and anxiety, making it easier to cope with the challenges of cancer and its treatments. Improve the quality of life Overall, exercise can significantly improve the quality of life for cancer patients and survivors. By improving physical function, managing cancer-related symptoms, and boosting mental health, exercise can help patients maintain a sense of independence and control over their lives. Additionally, exercise can help patients feel more connected to others, which can be particularly important during and after cancer treatment. Starting an exercise program After completing cancer treatment, many patients may be hesitant to start an exercise program. It's important to work with a healthcare provider to develop a safe and effective exercise program that takes into account any physical limitations or side effects from treatment. Patients may need to start with light exercise and gradually increase intensity and duration over time. In conclusion, exercise can be a powerful tool for cancer patients and survivors, improving physical function, managing symptoms, and boosting mental health. By working with healthcare providers to develop a safe and effective exercise program, patients can improve their overall quality of life and feel more in control of their health and well-being. Get started with The After Cancer to start your exercise program