A latest study shows that yoga can regulate stress and improve quality of life in women with breast cancer.
Researchers at the University of Texas analysed 191 women with breast cancer (stage 0-3). They were divided in three groups. Two groups were assigned to perform either yoga or simple stretching and the third group acted as the control set. The participants of the yoga and stretching were told to attend one-hour classes designed for breast cancer patients for three days every week. This was continued for six weeks.
The study findings revealed that those engaged in stretching and yoga were found to have improved abilities in carrying out daily activities. They were also reported to have improved overall health and enhanced regulation of stress.
"Combining mind and body practices that are part of yoga clearly have tremendous potential to help patients manage the psychosocial and physical difficulties associated with treatment and life after cancer, beyond the benefits of simple stretching," said Lorenzo Cohen, Ph.D., professor and director of the Integrative Medicine Program at MD Anderson, in a press release.
The study also revealed that women who did yoga had lower cortisol levels and reduction in the stress hormone. The researchers explained that exercising can particularly reduce the risk of breast cancer as it brings down stress levels.
"The transition from active therapy back to everyday life can be very stressful as patients no longer receive the same level of medical care and attention. Teaching patients a mind-body technique like yoga as a coping skill can make the transition less difficult."
The study was published in the 'Journal of Clinical Oncology.'
