In my previous blog, I discussed symptoms and side effects following breast cancer treatment, a time during which survivors are often left with emotional, as well as physical scars. Now let’s take a look at what happens to breast cancer patients during and after treatment, and how Qigong can help survivors make peace with their bodies, restore the mind-body connection, improve cognitive function, and lessen pain.
In the eyes of Traditional Chinese Medicine, breast cancer, like any disease, is considered an energetic imbalance. Energy must flow freely through meridians in order to achieve the best possible health. Energy moves freely through meridians, including in the breast area, and energy stagnation may lead to calcification, cysts and breast lumps. Qigong stimulates energy flow through key energy pathways running through the breast area, so these physical issues can be dispersed.
In other words, healing comes from the inside-out.
After many studies, it is clear that interventions involving movement added an additional dimension to healing by directly addressing the physical body. Breast cancer survivors re-discovered their body’s abilities and strength, while at the same time became aware of the connection between movement and emotional states.
A study published in 2019 compared treating breast cancer survivors with gentle exercise, support, and Qigong. Cognitive function and stress reduction improved most for the Qigong group. A 2020 qualitative analysis of breast cancer survivors had participants perform the Eight Section Brocades for 12 weeks. Face-to-face interviews were conducted at the beginning and end of the study, and a few major themes arose:
Survivors were able to reconnect the mind and body and lessen their pain.
Qigong helped the survivors make “peace with their bodies” and move towards acceptance and confidence.
Qigong helped survivors become more aware of emotions expressed through physical sensations. Some survivors mentioned that they had never been able to meditate before, but were able to almost immediately with the Brocades.
Because the Brocades emphasize upright posture, survivors were able to develop an internal sense of balance and good posture, as well as stop slouching.
Qigong made survivors feel “unstuck” as they learned to move (physically and emotionally) and release tension.
And perhaps most importantly, survivors enjoyed practicing as a group and learning that they were not alone!
Prior to the intervention, survivors stated they had concerns about cancer recurrence, and some mentioned the “roller coaster” of breast cancer treatment. Survivors wanted to feel whole again. Interestingly, the disconnect with their bodies usually started with living through the diagnosis and treatment where emphasis was put on surgical procedures, medications, and diagnostic tests. During this time, survivors did what they needed to do simply to survive. The Brocades intervention gave them a different perspective, and allowed them step back from the so-called cancer “lens.”
As a survivor, I can attest to this mind-body disconnect during radiation treatment. The medical staff was wonderful, but so focused on the technical aspects of the treatment, I mentioned to my husband that I felt like a car with multiple mechanics working under my “hood.”
Whether it is Tai Chi or Qigong, breast cancer survivors can benefit in many ways by practicing mind-body exercises. The Brocades may be an appropriate intervention, and early on in the treatment process, because there is less physical movement and is a bit easier to learn. There is truly no downside!
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