Lisa Hanigan, yoga instructor at the Nassif Community Cancer Center, discusses yoga, how it can benefit patients and much more.
What is yoga?
Yoga is a way to get to know yourself better physically, mentally and spiritually. It is an “innercise” as well as an exercise, which may help you become stronger and more flexible and better able to deal with stress in your life.
What can patients expect at a yoga class?
To stretch and strengthen by getting into poses that have been around for centuries.
In what ways can yoga benefit cancer patients during treatment, as well as cancer survivors?
Yoga can help patients regain strength and mobility/flexibility after treatment. It can help relieve symptoms related to scar tissue from surgery and radiation.
What would you say to someone who may be hesitant to try yoga?
Yoga is not competitive, and you are able todo exactly what you are able to do. If you are able to get up and down off the mat, your should definitely give it a try. Many modifications can be made for special circumstances.
What is your goal when working with patients at the Community Cancer Center?
My goal is to work with you to help you become stronger and more flexible so that you are not hindered physically, and you are able to do what you want to do with your life.
Lisa Hanigan
Lisa Hanigan has been practicing yoga for 20 years and teaching for over 15 years. She first tried yoga with a friend who was going through cancer treatment and loved it so much that she never stopped. In addition to teaching at the Community Cancer Center, she also teaches school children, at-risk youth, college sports teams and adults in rehab.
