In the journey of a cancer patient, the physical battle is often paralleled by a more challenging emotional and psychological struggle. While medical treatments target the disease, the mind and spirit require nurturing to foster resilience and enhance quality of life. Meditation, rooted in traditional Indian Knowledge Systems, offers a non-invasive, non-pharmacological approach to support this holistic healing process.
Cancer's impact extends beyond physical health, casting long shadows over mental wellbeing. Studies reveal that up to 20% of cancer patients experience depression, while anxiety affects approximately 10%, rates significantly higher than in the general population. These psychological burdens can impede treatment adherence and overall recovery.
The benefits of meditative practices
Evidence-based meditative programs such as Yoga of Immortals (YOI), as part of integrative healthcare, are emerging as impactful tools in alleviating mental health challenges. A meta-analysis encompassing 18 randomized controlled trials found that such interventions significantly improved quality of life, reducing pain, fatigue, anxiety, and depression among cancer patients. Rooted in ancient Indian native medicine, these practices offer holistic approaches to mental wellness. They integrate meditation, breathwork, and yogic postures to foster mental resilience. Studies published in leading medical journals reveal that participants engaging in regular practice of YOI experienced reductions in symptoms of depression, anxiety, and insomnia by 72-82% over an eight-week period.
Mechanisms of resilience building
Meditative practices enhance resilience by promoting a state of ‘restful alertness,’ a unique neurophysiological space combining deep metabolic rest with heightened awareness. This state counteracts stress, improves emotional regulation, and fosters a positive mindset, essential for cancer patients navigating the uncertainties of their condition.
Incorporating meditation into cancer care regimens offers a non-invasive, cost-effective means to enhance patient well-being. Healthcare providers are increasingly recognizing the value of these practices. For instance, a study exploring shared meditation sessions among cancer patients and healthcare professionals found improvements in self-efficacy, self-esteem, levels of tension and quality of life among participants.
As the medical community continues to seek comprehensive approaches to cancer care, integrating meditative practices as part of integrative healthcare offers a promising avenue to enhance resilience and quality of life for patients. By embracing these time-honoured, non-pharmacological interventions, we can provide holistic support to those navigating the arduous path of cancer treatment.
Authored by: Dr. Ishan Shivanand, mental health researcher and the Founder of Yoga of Immortals.
Cancer's impact extends beyond physical health, casting long shadows over mental wellbeing. Studies reveal that up to 20% of cancer patients experience depression, while anxiety affects approximately 10%, rates significantly higher than in the general population. These psychological burdens can impede treatment adherence and overall recovery.
The benefits of meditative practices
Evidence-based meditative programs such as Yoga of Immortals (YOI), as part of integrative healthcare, are emerging as impactful tools in alleviating mental health challenges. A meta-analysis encompassing 18 randomized controlled trials found that such interventions significantly improved quality of life, reducing pain, fatigue, anxiety, and depression among cancer patients. Rooted in ancient Indian native medicine, these practices offer holistic approaches to mental wellness. They integrate meditation, breathwork, and yogic postures to foster mental resilience. Studies published in leading medical journals reveal that participants engaging in regular practice of YOI experienced reductions in symptoms of depression, anxiety, and insomnia by 72-82% over an eight-week period.
Mechanisms of resilience building
Meditative practices enhance resilience by promoting a state of ‘restful alertness,’ a unique neurophysiological space combining deep metabolic rest with heightened awareness. This state counteracts stress, improves emotional regulation, and fosters a positive mindset, essential for cancer patients navigating the uncertainties of their condition.
Incorporating meditation into cancer care regimens offers a non-invasive, cost-effective means to enhance patient well-being. Healthcare providers are increasingly recognizing the value of these practices. For instance, a study exploring shared meditation sessions among cancer patients and healthcare professionals found improvements in self-efficacy, self-esteem, levels of tension and quality of life among participants.
As the medical community continues to seek comprehensive approaches to cancer care, integrating meditative practices as part of integrative healthcare offers a promising avenue to enhance resilience and quality of life for patients. By embracing these time-honoured, non-pharmacological interventions, we can provide holistic support to those navigating the arduous path of cancer treatment.
Authored by: Dr. Ishan Shivanand, mental health researcher and the Founder of Yoga of Immortals.
You may also like
Tim Walz's daughter melts down on TikTok: 'This country does not deserve Kamala Harris'
Pakistan Takes Action Against Severe Air Pollution by Closing Public Parks, Zoos....
Paul Mescal lookalike competition leaves fans baffled as 'twin' is crowned winner
'I'm only spending £100 this Christmas - you don't need to splash out to put a smile on someone's face'
Health Tips- Eating turmeric mixed with ghee is beneficial for health, know how to consume it
