Yoga is a powerful practice for both the mind and body. But you don’t have to twist yourself into a pretzel to feel relief. Traditional yoga can be challenging for anyone with physical limitations, fatigue, or balance issues that often come with cancer treatment. It can also look a bit intimidating if you’ve never tried it before.
That's why gentle chair yoga provides a wonderful starting point. By modifying traditional poses and using a chair for support, this form of practice allows you to stretch, strengthen, and move your body at your own pace in a way that feels comfortable.
A holistic approach to health and healing
At Dartmouth Cancer Center (DCC), we believe in a holistic approach to patient care, which extends beyond medical treatment to include complementary therapies like yoga. Nicole Parker, LD, RD, RYT200, is a certified yoga instructor and oncology dietitian who teaches classes through DCC’s Complementary Care Program. She emphasizes the strong connection between physical activity, mental well-being, and overall health.
"Physical activity is a powerful tool for strengthening your immune system by reducing inflammation and promoting immune cell regeneration," Parker explains. For cancer patients, this is particularly important, as both the disease and its treatment can have a significant impact on the body's defenses.
Beyond the physical benefits, chair yoga is an excellent way to manage stress. The practice combines gentle movement with mindful breathing, which can help calm the nervous system. According to Parker, chronic stress can suppress the immune system by increasing cortisol levels, which inhibits the action of white blood cells.
A safe and empowering practice
Chair yoga is an empowering practice because it meets you where you are. “The purpose is not to perform a perfect pose, but to listen to your body and honor its needs,” says Parker.
If you're new to yoga or dealing with health challenges, chair yoga offers a welcoming entry point. “Whether your goal is to increase flexibility, improve mobility, or simply find a way to relax, chair yoga is a safe and effective option,” says Parker. “It's an opportunity to connect with your body, improve your physical health, and find a sense of peace.”