Yoga for the Cancer Patient

This program provides yoga therapists with a basic understanding of integrative oncology. It details the pathophysiology of cancer, mainstream treatment, and side effects associated with treatments for breast, colorectal, lung, and prostate cancer, as well as lymphoma, leukemia, and other cancer diagnoses.

In this course we pay particular attention to the physical and psychological issues that cancer patients face. We discuss herb-drug interactions, nutrition, and physical activity, the importance of research and clinical trials, and relevant legal and safety issues. The class also includes demonstrations of inpatient and outpatient yoga technique.

Yoga therapists leave this course with the knowledge and skills to:

• Understand the difference between yoga for the cancer patient and yoga techniques for the general population
• Assess patients and document yoga treatments
• Develop appropriate, safe, and effective treatment plans for cancer inpatients and outpatients
• Adapt yoga techniques to accommodate medical equipment and the patient's clinical status
• Practice yoga as a member of the medical team in the hospital setting
• Learn the overall role of yoga for the cancer population