I am a breast cancer survivor from Orlando, Fl.  It's been 2 1/2 years now!  Time sure flies when you're having fun!

One of the best suggestions I got from M.D. Anderson was to go to a Yoga class while undergoing treatment.  I started with just a wonderful all-around class...lots of stretching, a lovely flow of postures, and a relaxing quiet time at the end for meditation.  It was so helpful to begin stretching my arm and chest muscles after surgery, and I found that after class, I would remain in a state of relaxation for days.  At first, my teacher only offered classes one day a week, but with some prodding increased them to twice a week.  I just wouldn't miss them.  Between the folks in radiation at M.D. Anderson who kept me laughing, and my yoga friends, my attitude became increasingly positive and grateful, and I feel like my recovery time was shortened by engaging in an activity that fed the body and spirit.

Once I finished with my treatment, I felt ready to take on a more challenging type of Yoga practice, and at the suggestion of Kate Potter from Namaste Yoga on Fit T.V., who was our guest teacher for 2 weeks in my yoga class, I tried Bikram yoga.  For those of you who haven't heard of Bikram Yoga, it's a 90 minute practice in a room that is kept at about 100 to 105 degrees.  It certainly more than fulfilled my wanting a practice that would truly challenge my body and increase my stamina. 

I don't think I've ever felt as healthy as I do now, after practicing Bikram for the last year.  While I wouldn't suggest Bikram for those undergoing treatment because of the physical demands of the practice and because of the gallons of sweat that pour out of your body, I think it would be the perfect way to regain one's strength and confidence after treatment.  Of course, I would suggest checking with your medical oncologist to make sure it's alright to begin such a rigorous practice, but I would definitely say it's been incredible for me in my journey to be healthy, strong, and centered.  My yoga teachers and friends have been so important to me, and I will be eternally grateful for their interest in my health, and their kindness.  I think my entire family would agree that I am much more calm and relaxed than I ever was before being diagnosed with cancer. 

I truly believe that our bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit, and the wonderful treatment I received at M.D. Anderson and the continuing practice of Yoga are continuing to heal and feed the spirit.