Yoga for Brain Cancer

As many of you know, CPF Oncology Yoga classes are open to those with all types of cancer.

May is dedicated to Brain Cancer Awareness.

According to the Mayo Clinic, brain tumors and related cancers can impact cognitive function, balance, coordination, and overall neurological health. Treatment may include surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy, all of which can affect both the body and mind in profound ways.

Yoga can serve as a gentle and supportive complement to medical care by focusing on nervous system regulation, breath awareness, and mindful movement. Practices that emphasize grounding, stability, and mental clarity can be especially beneficial.

The National Institutes of Health supports the use of breathwork and relaxation techniques to help reduce stress, improve mood, and support overall quality of life. Simple pranayama practices, such as diaphragmatic breathing, can help regulate the nervous system and promote a sense of calm. More intense or rapid breathing techniques should be avoided if they create dizziness or discomfort.

Oncology Gentle Yoga Classes

As with any oncology-based yoga practice, a gentle and restorative approach is key. The use of props, slow transitions, and clear attention to balance and safety are especially important.

Practicing near a wall or chair for additional support may be helpful.

Posture selection may include:

(Seated or Standing) 

• Tadasana (Mountain Pose) – Encourages grounding, posture awareness, and stability

• Vrksasana (Tree Pose) – Supports balance, focus, and neuromuscular coordination (with support as needed)

• Seated Forward Fold (gentle variation) – Promotes introspection and a calming effect on the nervous system

• Cat/Cow (Bitilasana/Marjaryasana) – Encourages spinal mobility and breath connection

• Legs Up the Wall (Viparita Karani) – A restorative pose to reduce fatigue and promote relaxation

As always, yoga should be adapted to meet the individual where they are, honoring energy levels, balance, and any treatment-related considerations. At the Christina Phipps Foundation, our mission is to support oncology patients, caregivers, and survivors through compassionate, accessible yoga practices that meet the whole person.  We believe in empowering individuals with tools that foster resilience, connection, and healing throughout their journey.

For Oncology Chair Yoga Classes

Theme: Strength & Empowerment

Focus: Core, Legs and Resilience

Asanas: Warrior I & II, Boat

Chair Modifications

Warrior I: Facing forward, move one leg to side of chair, other leg can be extended or stay bent in front of chair, arms raised

Warrior II: Facing forward, move one leg to side of chair, other leg extended slightly back, arms raise to shoulder height, body facing front of chair

Boat: Sit on edge, lift one or both feet, arms extended forward for core activation

Standing Poses using Chair for Safety

Warrior I: Stand back of chair, hold onto chair back, keep one foot facing chair, step other foot back, bend front leg, keep one arm on chair and lift the other.

Warrior II: Move to back of chair, turn side of body to back of chair, extend arm closest to chair and hold onto back of chair. Turn foot closest to chair pointing towards chair and bend knee, extend other arm out side body. Turn head towards back of chair.

Boat: Use chair pose with hands on back of chair. Bend knees deeply, remove one hand from chair.

For additional guidance, gentle practices, and ongoing support, we invite you to explore our YouTube channel: Christina Phipps Foundation YouTube