Yoga for cancer – what’s it all about?

As we approach the end of summer, I am thrilled to reach a personal goal of mine in starting a yoga for cancer class in my local area. It’s something I am passionate about following my own diagnosis in 2022 and I was keen to build my yoga beyond the occasional specialist online sessions I found. With no in person specialist classes in my area when I needed something more but wasn’t ready physically or emotionally to join a regular class.

Whilst anyone affected by cancer is very welcome to join any of my classes and will have a warm welcome, there are a number of things to consider.

Firstly, sometimes the energy required to get somewhere is so much effort that once you arrive your ability to fully engage may be limited. In a regular class you may feel you don’t wish to look different and may push through whereas, in a cancer class you will feel able to be present in the space and rest if needed throughout, observing and taking what you would like to save in mind for another time when you have more energy. No one will notice or ask, it will be the norm.

The next thing to consider is emotions. Going through a cancer diagnosis and treatments can be overwhelming. Yoga gives us opportunity to stop and be present. This can result in healthy release of emotions and sometimes stopping results in overwhelm, even when we don’t expect it. In my cancer class emotions are expected, space is given for anyone wanting to take time out in another room and the other participants understand as they are going through a similar process.

The physical challenge is a key consideration. A general class is not designed for the challenges that treatment and surgery bring and whilst it can be adapted and you can opt to take alternative poses, the pace and movement may be too much. A cancer class comes from the perspective of a cancer patient and the likelihood of surgical scars, medical devices being worn and the need to build movement gradually. It focuses on exploring gradually so that you can build up slowly and a focus on taking things steady. There is a focus on more breathwork and relaxation opportunities which also provide movement but in a subtle way.

Side effects of treatments can bring many changes to the body including physical changes and emotions. Being in a space whereby others understand makes it easier to be yourself, no masking required.

As someone who experienced many of these challenges, I am keen to provide a space which supports people going through cancer diagnosis or treatment and hope that you will feel confident about taking that first step on your yoga journey into my class knowing you will be well supported.

Written by Kerry Nicholls,

Kerry is a Yoga Teacher in Spalding Lincolnshire and is additionally qualified in Yoga for cancer and kids yoga.