Friday, March 8, 2013

Guest Blogger - Exercise Gives Cancer Patients an Edge

Hey all!
My first guest blogger ever is quite an awesome one! Her topic, and passion is a great fit for my first Fitness Blog Friday! 
Melanie Bowen joined the Mesothelioma Cancer Alliance in 2011 as an awareness advocate for natural health and cancer cure initiatives. You will often find her highlighting the great benefits of alternative nutritional, emotional, and physical treatments on those diagnosed with cancer or other serious illness. Melanie also assists in social media outreach in her efforts to spread awareness. In her spare time, you can find Melanie trying new vegan recipes, on her yoga mat, or spending time with her family.

Exercise Gives Cancer Patients an Edge
A diagnosis of cancer, whether it is mesothelioma, breast cancer, or any of the various forms of the disease, is devastating. It takes a toll on the victim and loved ones as well. There are so many unknowns to face. As a patient goes forward with treatments, it's important to form a plan of attack. This will be a fight and the person with the right attitude and ammunition is likely to have the best outcome. This means getting plenty of rest, putting the best foods into the body, surrounding one's self with positive influences, and making sure exercise is part of the regimen.
According to the American Cancer Society, exercise can enhance a cancer patient's quality of life. This holds true for all people, but it is extremely important that those facing cancer make sure exercise becomes a part of their lives. Cancer treatments are hard on the body. They will drain a person, sapping them of strength and energy. However, a cancer patient can't surrender and become weak. Including regular exercise into your routine will keep the body strong, maintain a healthy weight, and keep the mind balanced as well. When people exercise regularly, it helps release stress 
and regain apositive outlook on life. Cancer patients will receive these benefits as well.

What different forms of exercise are incorporated will depend on the individual and the diagnosis. Cancer patients should find activities that they really enjoy, something they can look forward to in the midst of the strains of treatment. Joining up with friends or taking group classes can be an extra source of motivation. Walking, biking, aerobics, and yoga class are all excellent forms of physical activity. Strength training may be helpful as well.

The amount and intensity of exercise will depend on how a patient is feeling and what your doctor recommendsSome days will be better than others, allowing an individual to include more physical activity into the routine while other days may mean trimming back and going easy on the body. It's important to pay attention to one's body and recharge as needed. Talk to your doctor to start an applicable and beneficial program today! Learn more, and follow Melanie here!