The Benefits of Exercise.
Our recommendations are not intended to be substitutes for your doctor-prescribed chemo and radiation treatments. They are in addition to your doctor's orders and are intended to help your immune system win the battle against cancer.

The thymus gland, the "hub" of the immune system, releases cells that attack and kill cancer cells. During times of depression, it is thought that the thymus gland stops working. So the key is a positive attitude - to stop depression before it starts. We believe that exercise not only contributes to physical health, but also to emotional and mental health. Why? We know for a fact that exercise releases endorphins in the brain that cause that "feeling good" sensation. Secondly, it is also a proven fact that tumors grow faster when a person is under stress. So, we must relax!

Ready, Set, Go! Time to Exercise!
Now that you're convinced of the benefits of exercise, where do you start? First, you should always consult with your doctor before starting any exercise program. We know that for many, exercise is already a part of the daily routine. Others who have never exercised may not know how to start. Others of you may feel too weak from your treatments to participate. However, exercise really will increase your energy, and everyone can do it!!

1. Yoga and T'ai Chi. We recommend the book Simple Yoga by Cybele Tomlinson. If you are apprehensive about starting an exercise program, a good way to start is by reading about it first. If you prefer to try an exercise video, we recommend Stress Relief Yoga for Beginners with Suzanne Deason. For many seniors, Tai Chi may be a more "doable" exercise program. T'ai Chi offers the popular relaxation breathing techniques that yoga offers; but it is not as strenuous. It is very do-able for people weakened by chemo and radiation and for seniors. A good T'ai Chi exercise video to try is .....

Before you know it, you may just want to get out of your living room and join an exercise class!