Smilow Cancer Hospital at Yale New Haven Health has introduced a new therapeutic yoga initiative aimed at enhancing cancer treatment through holistic wellness practices. This initiative is part of the hospital’s Integrative Medicine Program, which also provides resources like guided meditation, wellness workshops, T’ai Chi, nutrition consultations, and gentle yoga.
The newly launched restorative yoga sessions, conducted via Zoom, are led by Ellen McNally, a certified Trauma-Sensitive Yoga teacher with extensive training from the Yoga Alliance. With 12 years of experience, McNally has dedicated herself to helping patients heal through mindfulness and movement since joining Smilow’s Integrative Medicine department in 2018.
“I love teaching yoga, and I especially enjoy helping individuals find a clear, calm, and tranquil mind,” said McNally. “The loneliness of the cancer journey can be terrifying. No matter the support from family or medical staff, ultimately, it is the individual who must navigate this challenging path.”
Dr. Gary Soffer, an integrative medicine physician at Smilow, emphasized McNally’s expertise in adapting yoga practices to meet the varying needs of patients. “Ellen’s expertise allows her to adapt the practice to patients’ varying abilities, ensuring it is both supportive and effective,” he noted.
Restorative yoga focuses on relaxation through supported poses and controlled breathing. This gentle practice has been recognized for its ability to alleviate physical and emotional tension, contributing to what McNally describes as the “calming of the fluctuations of the mind.”
Dr. Soffer highlighted the collaborative approach in integrating yoga with medical treatments. “Regular communication with the medical team allows us to adjust as needed, promoting overall well-being,” he said. He pointed out that restorative yoga effectively addresses symptoms like fatigue, anxiety, and pain, particularly in cancer patients, while providing a tranquil space for recovery that enhances quality of life.
During sessions, participants engage in fewer poses held for five to eight minutes, paired with relaxed breathing and mindful awareness. This structure facilitates a gentle decluttering of thoughts and fosters a deeper self-connection.
“The essence of yoga lies in creating a sense of community, known as Sangha in Sanskrit,” McNally explained. “Regular classes offer a consistent thread in patients’ lives, providing them with tools to calm their minds and relax their bodies.”
Madelyn Kaehler, the event organizer and manager of the Integrative Medicine team, described the sessions as “an opportunity for patients to bring their body, breath, and mind back into balance,” using gentle stretches and breath awareness to soothe the nervous system and leave participants feeling refreshed.
Patient testimonials reveal that restorative yoga with McNally has significantly contributed to their mental well-being, fostering a positive mindset that complements their medical care.
The benefits of restorative yoga at Smilow Cancer Hospital extend beyond physical health, offering patients a holistic approach to managing the challenges of cancer treatment. By fostering mental clarity and community through breath awareness and mindful movements, this initiative aims to support the overall well-being of those undergoing treatment.
Smilow Cancer Hospital is located at 35 Park Street, where the Integrative Medicine Program continues to evolve, providing comprehensive care to cancer patients.
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