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Nadine Anderson

Breathe Easy: Embracing Mindfulness for Breast Cancer Awareness Month


Mindfulness and Breast Cancer
Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Mindfulness meditation has become an increasingly relevant approach for enhancing the well-being of both women and men diagnosed with breast cancer, providing valuable tools to navigate the emotional and physical challenges of this journey. Research underscores the effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions in mitigating psychological distress among breast cancer patients. A notable study published in PubMed found that participants who engaged in mindfulness based cognitive therapy interventions reported significant reductions in anxiety and depression, as well as fear of cancer recurrence and improvements in overall quality of life. This evidence highlights the profound impact mindfulness can have on those facing the complexities of breast cancer treatment and recovery.

 

At its core, mindfulness meditation encourages us to focus on the present moment, fostering an awareness of thoughts and feelings, with a sense of kindness and compassion towards ourselves. For breast cancer patients, this practice can be particularly helpful to alleviate the pervasive fears and uncertainties associated with diagnosis and treatment.

Mindfulness techniques, such as guided meditation and mindful breathing, allow us to cultivate a sense of calm and acceptance, which can be transformative during a time often characterised by anxiety and emotional upheaval.

 

Mindful breathing is a straightforward yet powerful technique that can help reduce stress and promote relaxation. As Here’s a step-by-step guide to doing it effectively for Breast Cancer Awareness Month:

 

Step 1—Find a Comfortable Position:

Sit or lie down in a quiet space where you won’t be disturbed. Ensuring your body is relaxed and alert. You can close your eyes or keep a soft gaze.


Step 2—Take a Few Deep Breaths:

Starting with a few deep breaths to help steady your mind. Inhaling slowly and deeply through your nose, allowing your belly to expand, and then slowly exhaling.


Step 3—Focus on Your Breath:

After a few deep breaths, allowing you breath to return to its natural breathing pattern. Noticing the sensations of the breath entering body, and then leaving your body. You might also notice the breath in the chest.


Step 4—Be Present:

As you are observing your breath, as best you can, bringing your awareness fully to the present moment. If your mind starts to wander, (which it will) gently acknowledging that it has wandered off into thoughts and thinking and returning back to the breath wherever you feel it most vividly in the body.

We refer to this as a "pocket practice" as it can be practiced anytime and anywhere, especially when you are feeling overwhelmed. This breathing exercise can be as brief or as long as you prefer, serving to soothe your parasympathetic nervous system. We recommend starting with shorter sessions and gradually increasing the duration.

 

As healthcare practitioners increasingly recognise the importance of holistic approaches to cancer care, mindfulness is being integrated into treatment protocols for breast cancer and other cancer patients. This integration not only addresses emotional pain but also empowers people to reclaim a sense of agency over their health. The growing body of evidence supporting mindfulness in this context suggests a shift towards a more comprehensive understanding of healing—one that encompasses both the mental and physical aspects of recovery.


Incorporating mindful breathing into daily routines can significantly enhance emotional resilience, especially for those navigating the complexities of cancer treatment. For those among us seeking a more structured support, the Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy for Cancer (MBCT-Ca) programme beginning on October 14th in Hong Kong, offers an invaluable opportunity. This evidence-based approach combines mindfulness practices with cognitive therapy to help patients, their loved ones and also caregivers manage the psychological challenges associated with cancer. By participating in the MBCT-Ca programme, participants can develop essential coping skills, foster a deeper connection to their experiences, and cultivate a sense of peace that extends beyond treatment. This holistic support not only aids in managing current emotional distress but also equips participants with tools to navigate the uncertainties of the future with greater resilience and clarity.



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