Yoga was my lifeline after treatment for breast cancer

I couldn’t believe I had cancer at 32

I was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1998. For some time, I had been aware of a pea-sized lump in my right breast but, being only 32 years old, I didn’t think it was anything to worry about so I ignored it for several months.  I happened to casually mention it to my husband who insisted that I get it checked out.

My GP referred me to a breast specialist, and I went along on my own, still not concerned enough to bring my husband.  During that appointment, I underwent an ultrasound and a fine needle aspiration.

A couple of days later we went back for the results.  I was told that I needed surgery to remove the lump, as there was a cancerous tumour. I remember feeling numb. I couldn’t quite believe it. My first thoughts were for my two young boys and would I ever see them grow up.

I needed time to rest and regain strength 

I felt like I was being carried along in a whirlwind, just going through the motions of what needed to be done to survive.

A few days after the lumpectomy, we were back in the consultant’s room and he gave us the news that he didn’t get a clear enough margin, so I’d need more of my breast tissue removed. This was when he raised the option of having a mastectomy. I remember recoiling in horror, feeling like I was the only 32-year-old women going through this.  I was concerned about losing my breast, and as it was important for me to have something that resembled a breast there.

I had a mastectomy and reconstruction using an expandable implant.  

Breast Cancer Now were a huge support to me

Gradually, life returned to normal. From a physical aspect, I was functioning. The wounds had healed, and I had a shape that resembled a breast. However, I didn’t feel fully back to my normal self. – I felt on the verge of tears for weeks afterwards and became anxious about recurrence. I and was highly tuned in to any new lump, bump, or twinge I felt in my body.

Breast Cancer Now were a huge support to me before and after my treatment. A few months after my recovery, I phoned the Helpline to ask how I could support other young women going through breast cancer because I knew how isolating it could be.

I’m now 26 years on from my diagnosis, I support women with a similar diagnosis to me as a Someone Like Me volunteer. I’ve worked on the Helpline, delivered breast awareness talks and helped organise and participate in their flagship fashion show.

Yoga calmed my nervous system  

Another great source of support to me was yoga. I had a vague awareness of yoga at the time and knew that it could rebalance the body and calm the mind, so I decided to try a class at my local gym. Those 90 minutes on my mat were my lifeline in the months following my treatment.

Yoga rehabilitated me. It made my whole body strong. It stretched the tight areas around the scar tissue and mobilised my right arm and shoulder. It focused and calmed my mind away from anxious thoughts and began to work at a deeper level.

I felt empowered that I was taking charge of my own recovery and wellbeing.

Yoga can help alleviate some of the side effects of treatment

I'm now a qualified yoga teacher with specialist training in teaching yoga to people with cancer. I offer weekly group  online yoga classes specifically for anyone with a diagnosis of breast cancer. 

I’m also a yoga therapist where I see clients on a 1-to-1 basis, offering a bespoke programme tailored to the individual. 

Being diagnosed with breast cancer and having treatment can cause anxiety and leave you feeling imbalanced, both physically and mentally. It’s important to look after your emotional wellbeing and yoga is a great way to take some time focus on yourself.

I've written another post where I share 5 yoga poses to support you through treatment. You can practice along with me with videos and instructions.