Ashtanga Yoga and Breast Cancer

Hi David,

Hope this finds you well and happy. Time sure has a habit of slipping by doesn't it?

I just found out that my breast cancer has returned, after a remission of 7 years. This is the second recurrence; I originally had a lumpectomy and chemo in 1984, followed by a wider lumpectomy in 1995. This time, they obviously want to do a mastectomy (which seems sensible, as there'd be practically no boob left with another lumpectomy) followed probably by chemo/tamoxifen. All a drag, of course, but I've been through it twice so expect to get through it again.

What I want to know is whether you have any advice on the advisability of practicing Ashtanga in my situation. I've heard "rumors" that ashtanga's heat can generate cell growth; do you know anything about that? Any suggestions of postures to do/avoid during recovery? (Fortunately, I've already had the lymph nodes of axilla removed, so I won't be dealing with that....) Ashtanga is such a big part of my life that I don't think I'd stop it under any circumstances, but I'd love to know what you think, and if you have any other suggestions, source books, people to contact, etc.

In the meantime, thanks so much, and be well.

All the best,

E

Dear E,

Thank you so much for your message. I am sorry to hear of the return of your cancer. I do not know enough about breast cancer to really answer you with any authority but I will offer some very general information. I have heard someone comment that they had heard of the practice of Ashtanga Yoga creating heat, which could cause excess cell growth etc. I have not scene any scientific or official medical study to prove this fact. I recommend that you consult with your physician and explain the movement and practice of Ashtanga and see what advice they may have. Many doctors are open-minded and would be happy to encourage anything that would assist the healing process. I know of other Ashtanga practitioners that have been through the same procedure but unfortunately I do not have their contact information. You might try entering some yoga chat lines and ask if anyone else has direct experience. As far as particular asanas to avoid during recovery I would recommend that you move with great awareness and control. Do not move quickly or deeply into asanas. Listen to your breath and focus on the internal practice. The body is always sending us signals. If you move slowly it is easier to listen. If you are recovering from surgery you must not do anything that would disturb the healing process or cause risk of tearing any sutures or causing undue strain to sensitive tissues. Allow the body to heal slowly. By consulting your physician and physiotherapist you should be able to determine to what degree you may move the affected area. There may be a period where they recommend completely immobilizing the area. Movement does however increase the healing effects of blood supply and elasticity of muscle tissues. As the affected area heals from the trauma of surgery I think that the yoga would be one of the best supports to enhance the healing process. Remember that the practice of yoga is much deeper than the movement within asanas. The visible aspects of the practice are just the surface of yoga. The real yoga is what we cannot see. Focus on your internal yoga. Breath, Bandhas and awareness of the deeper self. These internal practices are where the true depth of yoga resides. Place your mind and focus there. Take your yoga journey beyond the body. Seek Atman. Journey toward the true self. You sound as though you have a positive attitude and that is certainly a factor from which you may draw strength. Remember that Ashtanga Yoga is a many faceted practice that may be applied to individual needs. You can always adjust the practice to suit your particular circumstances. In this regard you will be the best to decide what feels appropriate for your body, mind and soul.

Thank you again for you message. Please keep in touch and let me know how things progress. Take good care of yourself!

I send my best wishes for Health and Happiness,

David