Yoga for Esophageal Cancer

As many of you know the CPF Oncology Yoga classes are often open to those with all types of cancer. Each month we plan to add information to our blog and social media about different cancers and at the end of the post include a yoga sequence or a select set of yoga poses.

April is the month for Esophageal Cancer.

According to the Mayo Clinic, the treatment for esophageal cancer is very intensive and prevention is considered key. Lifestyle choices that include yoga and exercise can help to lower the risks of this cancer.

Relief from the symptoms of esophageal cancer include poses that help to improve digestion and reduce reflux. The National Institute of Health encourages calming breath work (i.e. like alternate nostril breath) as it reduces cortisol and promotes a balanced autonomic nervous system. Pranayama (breath work) will additionally aid in pain management, relieving nausea, fatigue and improving sleep issues. Intense breathing can be counter-indicated, particularly if there is lung involvement, so avoid that.

Oncology Gentle Yoga Classes

As in any gentle yoga approach, a restorative practice and the support of props are welcome applications. It is especially important to avoid strain in the abdomen or around any surgical sites.

Posture selections may include:

Virasana- hero (A.K.A. thunderbolt)

Bitilasanana/Marjaryasana- cow/cat

Anuvittasana- standing backbend

Apanasana- knees to chest

Vrkasana- tree pose. Instills calmness, improves balance, strength and neuromuscular coordination.

Parivrtti/Vakrasana- twisted poses, aids digestion, massages abdominals and intestines.

Supta Baddhakonasa- reclined bound angle

Supta sukkasana- reclined crossed legged pose

Oncology Chair Yoga Classes

Theme: Hips & Emotional Release

Focus: Hip mobility, flexibility and emotional release

Asanas: Pigeon, Lizard Butterfly

Chair Modifications

Pigeon: Cross ankle over opposite thigh (figure 4). Variation: Ankle over thigh, lean forward, arm closest to bent knee goes between legs, other arm outside of standing leg, clasp hands

Lizard: Open one leg to side, lean gently into hip on side leg

Butterfly: Soles of feet together with knees falling open, feet stay on floor. Variation: Use block on small side and place feet on block with soles together knees apart

Standing Poses using Chair for Safety

Depending on mobility of students:

Pigeon or Lizard: Stand on side of chair facing seat. Raise and bend one leg, place lower leg on seat of chair, holding onto back of chair with closest arm, lean slightly forward.