Cancer & Stress Relief
Definition
Cancer refers to any one of a large number of diseases characterized by the development of abnormal cells that divide uncontrollably and have the ability to infiltrate and destroy normal body tissue. Cancer also has the ability to spread throughout your body.
Cancer is the second-leading cause of death in the United States. But survival rates are improving for many types of cancer, thanks to improvements in cancer screening and cancer treatment.
Relaxation can help relieve stress of having cancer
By Sheryl M. Ness – Mayo Clinic nurse educator
Relaxation therapies may help alleviate certain symptoms of cancer, relieve side effects of treatment, and improve your sense of well-being.
Many relaxation methods, such as massage therapy, meditation and guided imagery may be helpful in managing stress and anxiety. In addition, research studies show that relaxation techniques can lower blood pressure, reduce pain, and ease some side effects of chemotherapy.
Having cancer is stressful, so it may not be possible to eliminate all sources of stress. But you should consider the sources of stress that you can reduce. For example, ask for help with household chores, social responsibilities or work demands. Seek out effective strategies for coping with stress or simplify your life by saying “no” to the extra demands as much as possible.
Common relaxation techniques include:
- Yoga
- Tai chi
- Listening to music
- Exercise
- Hypnosis
- Guided imagery
- Massage therapy
Relaxation techniques involve refocusing your attention from the stress to something calming. Choose a relaxation technique that works best for you and incorporate it into your daily routine.
