It’s integrative, complementary, alternative. Call it whatever you like, yoga has fast become a meritorious component of cancer rehabilitation regimens. We’ve even seen wealthy celebrities throw some muscle (and money, lots of money) behind developing yoga-specific sanctuaries for patients under treatment or in recovery. Donna Karan for one if you want to get name-droppy.
It’s through the work of these caring individuals and organizations that those who face cancer and those who have bravely battled it can find community, and rebuild strength and aplomb with grace. With yoga.
And so that is why we’d like to take a moment to spotlight some of the valiant efforts put forth by yogis all around the country–and this is just what we found so far in a quick sweep this week.
San Francisco, CA: Coming up on January 10th non-proft org YogaBear will be hosting a free cancer and yoga workshop entitled Yoga Therapy for Cancer Recovery: A Meeting of the Minds. Health professionals, yoga instructors and cancer survivors are invited to come together in a symposium of shared knowledge and experience featuring panel discussions and members of both Western and Eastern approaches to healing. [More info and sign up here] [Find out more about their efforts at YogaBear.org]
Greenville, SC: Cancer patients at Bon Secours St. Francis Eastside Hospital in Greenville can find rehabilitation at restorative yoga class available just down the hall, thanks to Margaret Edwards, oncology rehab specialist, who founded the class seven years ago. [GreenvilleOnline.com]
Ocean Township, NJ: ” The Power Center, in partnership with The Beauty Foundation for Womens Cancer Care, raised over $7500 with FIGHT LIKE A GIRL Against Cancer. The event held Sunday, December 7, was dedicated to Betsi Eberhardt Kelli, 39, a native of Ocean Township, who is battling Stage IV Kidney Cancer.” [Asbury Park Press]
Grand Junction, CO: “Yoga Hour, meets Mondays, 5:45-7 p.m., Reflection Room, St. Mary’s Advanced Medicine Pavilion, entrance 25. Gentle classes designed for cancer patients, supporters. Bring your own mat.” [Grand Junction Free Press]
Binghamton, NY: United Health Services is now offering yoga classes for cancer patients and their loved ones. Classes are free, registration required. [Pressconnects.com Greater Binghamton]
