Research on the use of yoga for cancer as a complementary approach to standard of care
The diagnosis of cancer is a life-changing experience on many levels: physical, emotional, social and financial. Stress, uncertainty, fear and the challenges of navigating the medical system are all part of the reality of facing this diagnosis (1). Depending on the type of cancer and the stage at which it is diagnosed, the condition may cause new symptoms and may affect somebody’s ability to function. Being diagnosed and treated for cancer requires social support and a strategy to deal with stress. How can yoga support patients through their treatment and after they complete it? Research has shown that yoga can be beneficial as a complementary therapy to support patients with cancer while they receive their treatment and after they complete it (2, 3). A study published in October 2020 by the Support Care Center examined the effects of weekly yoga sessions during eight weeks (2). Cancer patients were randomized to receive yoga (intervention group) or to not receive yog