Aimed at supporting those with and recovering from lung cancer, Body Breathing is a brand-new online support group that helps patients learn more about how their breathing connects them to their bodies.
About the Body Breathing sessions
Breathing is such an important part of treatment, and it’s something that so many of us take for granted. During Body Breathing, we’ll aim to help patients understand breathlessness and how to utilise the mind-body connection to feel more in control during treatment and recovery.
Throughout the course, patients will learn simple relaxation skills, breathing techniques and gentle movements to release tension throughout the body and build confidence to move and breathe more freely.
We’ll practice tricks to help with sleep problems, anxiety/panic and fatigue, and to support general wellbeing. These sessions are open to anyone at any stage of illness and all the practices can be adapted to suit you and your needs. Developed holistically, these sessions are not to be used in place of current treatment but can be utilised alongside treatment to promote wellness.
Led by our very own Ellen Knapp and mindfulness teacher Kate Binnie, the course will be held monthly via Zoom starting Thursday, June 6th at 2pm. Kate is a singer, music therapist, yoga and mindfulness teacher registered with the Health Care Professionals Council with 15 years of experience working with people with lung problems.
She is currently doing her PhD at the Hull York Medical School exploring breathing and breathlessness, whilst continuing to run support groups online and in the community. Kate also runs support groups for A+LUK and other cancer charities.
What is mindfulness?
Mindfulness is a mental state characterised by present-moment awareness and non-judgmental acceptance of one’s thoughts, feelings, sensations, and surroundings. It involves intentionally directing attention to the present moment, without getting caught up in past regrets or future worries.
Mindfulness practices often involve meditation, breathing exercises, and other techniques aimed at cultivating this state of awareness. By fostering mindfulness, individuals can develop greater clarity, emotional balance, and resilience to stress, leading to improved overall well-being.
Mindfulness when living with lung cancer
Mindfulness can offer significant support for individuals navigating the challenges of living with lung cancer. By cultivating mindfulness, you can develop skills to manage stress, anxiety, and pain associated with the disease and its treatment.
Mindfulness practices, such as meditation and deep breathing exercises, can help alleviate physical discomfort and promote relaxation. Additionally, it can encourage acceptance of one’s current circumstances and foster a sense of gratitude for moments of peace and joy amidst the difficulties of illness.
How mindful breathing affects our lives
Mindful breathing has profound effects on our lives, influencing both our physical and mental well-being. By consciously focusing on the breath, we anchor ourselves in the present moment, calming the mind and reducing stress and anxiety.
Over time, regular practice of mindful breathing can help to cultivate a deeper sense of inner peace, heightened self-awareness, and increased overall satisfaction with life. The Body Breathing online support group will last around 90 minutes and is free for all. Please email Ellen to register your place at ellen.knapp@roycastle.org.