Student Testimonials from the Yoga for Cancer Programs
It's hard for me to explain how much difference you've made in my life since I joined your yoga class for people who have cancer in 2008. I have a brain tumor and my sweet husband Jamie was diagnosed with a brain tumor, Glioblastoma Multiforme, exactly one year later. Both of us attended your class at the Piedmont Yoga Center and it helped us so much. We met others struggling with cancer and observed the ups and downs of treatments. |
After taking years of yoga, I was skeptical about a class for cancer patients, but this ended up being EXACTLY what I needed as I was going through chemotherapy while raising my newborn. I look forward to this class every week. It is a brief respite from the multiple stressors of my life. It is a time to get out of my head and into my body (in a nurturing, relaxing, compassionate way). The mudras and breathing exercises help create a spiritual opening for release of pent-up emotions. I feel incredibly well cared for and don't have to worry about injury or overexertion. - Michelle S., Oakland CA, 2015 |
I take yoga at the Cancer Support Community with Cheryl. She is very knowledgeable about yoga during cancer treatment and in recovery. She gives us pose modifications if there is some poses that are difficult to do because of limitations. I have taken yoga for a long time and Cheryl's class is perfect to take to ease back into it slowly. -Karen N., Walnut Creek CA, 2013 The program gives you an oasis to relax - to engage in mindful rest - while at the same time giving you tools to slip into mindful rest where ever, when ever. The techniques used have greatly benefited me as I have gone through further treatment and recovery. Quantifying [the benefits] is hard -- being at peace while you have to undergo a 45 minute body scan. Finding a place within yourself to rest on a 10 hour flight home after treatment. I have very little stress or anxiety doing any of those things now that I have tools to take me to another place if needed." - Josh M., Oakland CA, 2011 It's been invaluable - not only learning the healing and gentle forms of yoga, but also I look forward to it each week. It offers respite from the hectic world of cancer treatment. After finishing treatment, I continue to train myself to relax and do the poses. The small class (sometimes only me) means the teacher and assistant can dedicate so much attention and really they both compliment each other, like a soft hug around the room. Cheryl & Sharon are gentle and compassionate. - Stephanie G., Alameda, CA, 2009 As I've gone through chemotherapy, Cheryl's yoga class has been wonderful - it's helped me to relax and let go of my anxiety, soothed my stiff muscles, given me yoga tips that I can use at home, and provided a caring attention that I find very healing. It has been a true refuge. - Jennifer W., Oakland CA, 2009 |
Since I began attending the class, I needed deep rest. I had accumulated stress, and was having trouble relaxing. I was tired, too. Cheryl's class allowed me to get the rest I deserved in the present moment. I could leave all of my problems and worries outside and focus on following Cheryl's instructions for healing. Cheryl very gently and carefully teaches tools (healing tools) that can be used at home. I felt as though I was able to let go of emotional pain and negative thoughts. It was really amazing that letting go of these things was so effortless. This class gave me a place to let go and renew. I couldn't go often, but the healing stayed with me long after leaving the class. I even went through yoga withdrawal when I couldn't go. The assistants are very helpful at all times. They seem to have radar and keep an eye out for any discomfort that arises. It is very pampering to have such wonderful assistants who have the skill to assist you if you are feeling awkward or not quite right. I had no reference for mudras or yoga nidra when I first came to the class. I feel I have benefited from everything that was offered and have experienced deep healing. Once, after class, I looked in the mirror at myself after a yoga nidra session, and the whites of my eyes were no longer red and tired looking, but a true "white" as they are supposed to be when we are beaming with health. I hope that the class continues to be available for those who need it as there are less and less resources available for people who are recovering from cancer, chemotherapy or radiation. It is truly a gift of renewal and rest for the body and spirit. - Kathleen W., Oakland CA, 2009 Your class was very important to getting me started on a positive road to recovery. When my second cancer was diagnosed I was totally overwhelmed and stressed. Your class was an important to me. It gave me tools to stay positive, relaxed, and introduced me to a yoga regime that has become important in my life. I now do yoga 4 times a week and am feeling stronger than I have in a very long time. Thank you. - Debbie M., Oakland CA, 2008 Cheryl is awesome and the Bay Area and I will miss all she brings to the yoga room of great instruction. Thanks for all the love you bring, Namaste! - Art J. , Oakland CA, 2007 |
