Few situations are more upsetting in life than hearing the words, “You have cancer.”  Regardless of the severity, cancer is always a fearful, life-altering experience.  And traditional treatments, such as radiation and chemotherapy, can be just as strenuous and frightening. 

Over the past several decades, doctors, patients and survivors have sought out alternative and holistic therapies to help manage the disease as well as the side effects of the treatment.   Many have chosen to pursue Yoga, an ancient practice that originated in India some 3000 years ago. Yoga consists of a multitude of spiritual practices and disciplines, but one aspect that has spread like wildfire throughout the western world is Hatha Yoga, or the Yoga of postures (asana), exercise and stretches.

Recently, a study at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center focused on more than 70 women who were undergoing radiation therapy for breast cancer.  One half of the women were assigned to participate in twice weekly Yoga classes for six weeks and the others were not.  The Yoga sessions included breathing and relaxation exercises, basic Yoga movements and meditation.  Researchers found that the group who practiced Yoga reported less fatigue, better general health and greater ability to participate in their everyday lives.1

While the physical benefits of practicing Yoga are readily evident, it should be noted that many report a renewed sense of well-being, especially through the practice of pranayama or controlled breathing. Breath is the essential life force and most patients have not given much thought as to whether their breathing is shallow or irregular.  When practicing pranayama, the patient breathes deeply and evenly into their lungs. They are encouraged to feel the breath exten