A GUEST POST BY KRISTA PETERSON
The popularity of yoga has grown exponentially as of late primarily due to its drove of mental and physical benefits. Joint, tendon, and ligament lubrication, as well as massage of organs, detoxification, and physical fitness are all positive benefits of yoga. Engaging in these techniques on a daily basis could lead to a drastically better sense of well being of individuals suffering from illness.
Originated in India over 4,000 years ago, yoga is a mind and body inclusive exercise. A derivative of the word “yuj,” meaning union, yoga’s intention is to establish a balance of the connections between the mind, body and spirit. As a base component of aryurvedic medicine, yoga incorporates meditation, relaxation, imagery, controlled breathing, stretching, and physical movement with the goal of gaining physical and mental control over the body.
As of late, studies have shown yoga to be beneficial in treatment of leukemia and cancer, including the rare asbestos cancer known as mesothelioma. Patients suffering from these diseases often suffer from fatigue and sleeplessness due to chemical and radiation therapies, and the methods used in yoga can help patients to sleep. This leads to a decrease in sleep aids and sedative medications. Yoga unfortunately cannot cure cancer, but can be used as a complementary treatment in symptom relief.
In achieving the balance found in yoga, an improved quality of life has been found in many cancer survivors. The techniques used in relaxation can help to unite the body and mind. This helps to give cancer patients a better sense of control by integrating the mind with the body and spirit, providing a strong feeling being in-touch with the self. The alternative treatments can develop these feelings and cause a higher overall sense of wellness and send the patient on the path to recovery. This aids patients in helping them feel more in touch with their emotions, and develops a connection with the ability to release them.
About Krista Peterson
I am a 22 year old student, living in Orlando FL, working on getting my bachelors at the University of Central Florida. I aspire to be a writer and am particularly passionate about the health and wellness of our community. I have had many family members diagnosed with different kinds of cancers and various other issues which encouraged me to be a health and safety advocate. I have been practicing yoga for about 3 years now. Most recently hot vinyasa yoga and I absolutely love it. Krista Peterson can be contacted at: krista.peterson925@gmail.com
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