Is Yoga Safe and Beneficial

calli66

Hi-

Yoga seems like a good idea to me to help in relieving stress and motivate the body during treatments but I am concerned about the germs and illness that might be picked up in class. I sometimes feel like my grandmother (who has breast cancer) needs to stay locked up in the house to keep her safe. She is young, 61, and still wants to be active but I am scared. Are the benefits of a group cancer oriented yoga class worth the risk of illness?

Anonymous

Calli, your Grandmother is old enough (and young enough) to make her own decisions about what is and isn't safe for her. 

If she brings her own mat, her exposure to germs will be minimal.  I have found that since cancer patients are aware that many of their fellow patients are vulnerable to germs due to chemo, people with colds or sniffles etc. tend to stay home rather than risk exposing someone else to those germs.

linn56

Ask her to make sure she washes her hands after class, as many of the poses involve hands on the floor or mat. Ideally, before she leaves the building and touches her car steering wheel. If there is no sink there (there must be?!) have her carry hand wipes.

I have attended my yoga class continuously since my diagnosis, and I feel like it helps my mental state. Keeps me from stressing.

kim63

As an alternative to exposing yourself to a public class, you could do yoga in your own home. I use my husband's home office (it has laminate floors and a computer) early in the morning before everyone wakes up. It's quiet, convenient and as germ free as possible. Just get a couple of good yoga DVDs and you are on your way! Yoga helps me cope with every aspect of my life, especially my health and mental well being.

EWB

Many treatment centers and hospitals offer a variety of programs for cancer pts, including yoga and other physical activities. I expect your grandmother will know whats right for her, and being out is often good for the soul!