People who seek treatment for brain tumors tend to face many physical and mental challenges. Yoga and meditation can help people deal with these challenges. They can help reduce stress, manage pain, and improve the quality of sleep. All of these can help improve the overall health of people undergoing treatment for brain tumors.
Learn how yoga and meditation can help brain tumor patients
World Brain Tumor Day June 8th of each year marks Brain Tumor Day, a day that aims to raise awareness about brain tumors. According to the American Brain Tumor Association, 1.3 million Americans are living with the disease. Brain tumors are cell growths in or near the brain and can occur in brain tissue as well as in nearby locations. Near-brain locations include nerves, the pituitary gland, the pineal gland, and the membranes that cover the surface of the brain.
The purpose of the day is to highlight the importance of early diagnosis and research for those who are affected by or at high risk of developing brain diseases. People who seek treatment for brain tumors tend to face many physical and mental challenges. Yoga and meditation can help address these challenges. They can help reduce stress, manage pain, and improve sleep quality, all of which can help improve the overall health of those undergoing treatment for brain tumors.
Here we look at how yoga and meditation can benefit brain tumor patients.
Yoga and meditation are known to significantly reduce stress levels. They promote relaxation and help keep you mentally calm. When brain tumor patients experience less stress, their overall health improves and they respond better to treatment.
There are certain asanas and pranayamas in yoga and meditation that help patients manage their pain by focusing on breath control and mindfulness, which helps divert attention from the pain.
Practicing yoga and meditation regularly can improve the quality of your sleep by calming your mind and reducing insomnia that may occur due to treatment. Sleeping well can strengthen your immune function, ultimately helping to improve your overall health.
Improved cognitive function
Yoga and meditation can help improve cognitive functions such as memory, attention and executive function. For people suffering from brain tumors, yoga and meditation can help alleviate some of the cognitive problems caused by the tumor and its treatment.
Regular yoga and meditation can also boost your immune system, which helps fight infections and improves your body’s ability to respond to cancer treatment.
Improving physical fitness
Certain yoga poses can help brain tumor patients maintain the strength and flexibility they need, a condition often reduced by side effects of treatment.
Reduces side effects of treatment
Yoga and meditation can help reduce common side effects of brain tumor treatment, such as nausea, fatigue, and headaches. Techniques such as deep breathing and relaxation can reduce these symptoms, making treatment more bearable.
Yoga and meditation can help you manage your emotions and reduce anxiety and depression. Having a positive mindset can help you cope better with the challenges of treatment.