An idea;)

Being a Physio this is a hot topic for me :) The nurses looked at me sideways but I took my yoga mat into hospital when I had my double mastectomy 10 weeks ago ...I figured there was nothing wrong with my legs ! Pre surgery I walked about 8km/ day during the week and 12 km on the weekends and did 4 yoga and Pilates classes a week . I was back at my first yoga class 8 days post op ( which I modified quite a bit ! But it was amazing how much i I COULD manage) since then have either walked 8km/day or been to my usual yoga class 4 times a week despite the chemo . If i feel awful I figure ill just go and lie on my mat and do a few twists ...but once I get there and start breathing I suddenly feel great and manage the whole class. The range of motion and strength in my arms and shoulders has been back to its preop level for the past 3 weeks . I haven't done 12km walk yet largely because its just been too hot . I also haven't been to my Pilates class ...I know I would physically manage it now with no problems but yoga offers so much more in terms of meditation , breath work and healing energy ( which I can definately use more of right now !) Plus 2 of my teachers run a pretty physical class so it is actually equally demanding to my Pilates class . And the happy thing for me is my scarf stays on while I'm upside down ! Professionally , I think the main thing is to find something you love .... Whether its walking , biking, ,dancing , swimming, gym classes . Then you are more likely for It to become part of your life routine . It is neither sustainable , realistic or enjoyable to force yourself to do an activity you really don't enjoy. Maintaining a level of exercise is a big issue , not just for us BC ladies but for many people with chronic illness , There is new and overwhelming research about exercise reducing the risk of cancer recurrence so it's an essential part of our "treatment " and one we can have a large amount of control over . Fear not If you' ve never done much exercise!!....every day is an opportunity to start , try something new . It often works best if you have a " buddy" with you for company , encouragement and a good laugh ! There are subsidised exercise physiologist sessions for cancer patients in many Capital cities so that can be a good place to start if you feel unsure where to begin . All the best and Happy Moving to us all :)