After a cancer diagnosis, you may be looking for new ways to take care of your mind and body. Lifestyle changes can make a lasting and meaningful impact while you're finding your confidence on a new path forward. One way that we can find balance through this journey is through meditation, which can become an amazing resource and benefit while healing.
What is Meditation?
Meditation has been practiced around the world for thousands of years. It's become a part of many different cultures and traditions, but its practice is unique to everyone. You may think of meditation as someone being very still and quiet– while this is a part of many methods, that's not all there is to it. There are also many different methods you can use, some of which involve movement, like tai chi or simply walking.
No matter how you practice meditation, it's meant to bring you peace, insight, and clarity. You can discover a way to connect with your breath, calm your mind, and become self-aware of your thoughts and feelings.
How Can Meditation Benefit People with Cancer?
The main reason that many people turn to meditation is to find a way to feel better. It is commonly used as a practice to reduce stress and anxiety, but it can also help soothe pain, problems sleeping, fatigue, nausea, and high blood pressure.
For people with cancer, meditation can help to mindfully decrease feeling stressed. Studies have shown that this may:
✦ improve mood
✦ enhance concentration
✦ reduce depression and anxiety
✦ reduce symptoms and side effects, such as feeling sick
✦ boost the immune system
How Do I Get Started with Meditation?
Anyone can learn how to meditate, with some patience. The process of learning may take time, since meditation is a process that will need to be refined over months and even years of practice. Once it is a part of your routine, you can discover how the benefits can make a positive impact for you. While this is a process you can learn at home, it may help to have a meditation teacher.
Practicing meditation every day will help the practice feel easier and more natural to you, and consistency is key. Not only can some guidance help you learn this practice, but ongoing support can give you the motivation you need to carry on as well.
As a certified meditation and mindfulness teacher, I would be grateful for the opportunity to be a part of your support system.
You can get to know me and more about Mindfulness in Cancer Recovery here: https://www.livebrilliant.coach/mbcr
