Yoga improves quality of life and physiological changes associated with radiotherapy in breast cancer patients

For patients with breast cancer undergoing radiotherapy, yoga offers unique benefits beyond fighting fatigue, according to research from The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. Researchers found that while simple stretching exercises counteracted fatigue, patients who participated in yoga exercises that incorporated controlled breathing, meditation and relaxation techniques into their treatment plan experienced improved ability to engage in their daily activities, better general health and better regulation of stress hormone cortisol. Patients in the yoga group were also better equipped to find meaning in the illness experience, which declined over time for the patients in the other two groups. Read more here.