{"id":8104,"date":"2024-06-11T13:28:27","date_gmt":"2024-06-11T17:28:27","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/rubanrose.wpbeta.vortexdev.com\/?p=8104"},"modified":"2024-09-23T15:24:49","modified_gmt":"2024-09-23T19:24:49","slug":"five-complementary-therapies-to-promote-mental-and-emotional-well-being-following-diagnosis","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/rubanrose.wpbeta.vortexdev.com\/en\/blog\/five-complementary-therapies-to-promote-mental-and-emotional-well-being-following-diagnosis\/","title":{"rendered":"Five complementary therapies to promote mental and emotional well-being following diagnosis\u00a0\u00a0"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

A breast cancer diagnosis is often accompanied by a lot of upheaval and can trigger waves of intrusive thoughts and emotions. This emotional outpouring can have an impact on the quality of life of those affected. Feeling overwhelmed? In addition to interventions led by recognized mental health professionals, there are a number of complementary practices that can help you feel better. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Here\u2019s a look at five complementary therapies you can try* to develop coping strategies for the emotional challenges associated with the disease. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n

Mindfulness meditation <\/strong> <\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Mindfulness meditation involves paying attention to your thoughts, emotions and sensations without judging them, and bringing your attention back to the present moment as often as necessary. Anchor points, such as the breath, an image or a fixed point, can be used during sessions. Studies have shown that regular meditation can improve emotional well-being and can also reduce symptoms of depression in cancer sufferers.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

On the one hand, breathing helps regulate our nervous system and improve our well-being. On the other, focusing on the present moment prevents us from worrying about the past or the future. In this way, mindfulness meditation can help us improve our tolerance of uncertainty and let go. It also helps us develop resilience and self-compassion. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Guided meditation exercises are available online for free through apps. They may also be offered by specialized cancer centres and organizations (see the Resources section below). <\/p>\n<\/div>

\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n
\"\"<\/figure>
\n

Oncology yoga <\/strong> <\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Doing an adapted physical activity such as oncology yoga on a regular basis can provide relief for breast cancer sufferers. In particular, it can help reduce stress, anxiety and depressive symptoms. Oncology yoga involves movements that are tailored to the physical limitations of people with cancer.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

A series of poses can be safely practised in the comfort of your home or in a studio. Relaxation techniques are used to help you unwind, let go and connect your body and mind. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Get free access to adapted yoga sessions online or in the studio with My Yoga<\/a>, part of the Quebec Breast Cancer Foundation\u2019s My Active Health Program<\/a>. <\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

\n

Dance therapy <\/strong> <\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Dance therapy is an expressive approach in which body movement is used to communicate and explore emotions. Primarily, dance therapy helps breast cancer sufferers develop greater body awareness. It also helps to improve self-esteem and find comfort in movement and music.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

These sessions are often conducted in groups, promoting social support and connection with others who are sharing similar experiences. Dance therapy workshops can be led by a professional specializing in body expression and psychotherapy. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The National Centre for Dance Therapy<\/a> offers virtual and studio dance therapy sessions in Montreal. <\/p>\n<\/div>

\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n
\"\"<\/figure>
\n

Hypnosis<\/strong> <\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Hypnosis is a technique in which relaxation, concentration, and visualization are used to help individuals access their subconscious and change their perceptions, sensations, and behaviours. For people with breast cancer, hypnosis can help reduce anxiety. But it is also used to reduce pain, improve sleep quality and provide an increased sense of control.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

It is important to consult a qualified hypnosis practitioner who is experienced and used to working with cancer sufferers. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit the Soci\u00e9t\u00e9 qu\u00e9b\u00e9coise d\u2019hypnose<\/a> website (in French) or that of the Association des hypnologues du Qu\u00e9bec<\/a> to find a qualified hypnosis practitioner (see also the Resources section below). <\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

\n

Sophrology<\/strong> <\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Sophrology is a method that combines breathing techniques, visualization, relaxation and gentle body exercises. It promotes a state of consciousness in which body and mind are in tune with each other. For breast cancer sufferers, sophrology can be beneficial in reducing stress and helping manage emotions. The practice also aims to improve sleep and boost self-confidence. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Working with a qualified sophrologist, patients learn simple exercises that they can practise whenever they feel the need. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sophrology can be offered in individual or group sessions. Consult the Resources section to find out which resources offer sophrology workshops. <\/p>\n<\/div>

\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n

*If you\u2019re considering exploring complementary therapies, talk to your healthcare team for recommendations tailored to your personal situation. <\/strong> <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Other complementary therapy resources <\/em><\/strong> <\/p>\n\n\n\n