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Receiving a cancer diagnosis can be confusing, frightening and stressful. Life’s pace is turned upside down with medical appointments and consultations. Studies have shown that gentle yoga can help to relieve stress, relax the body and restore empowerment to the spirit during this challenging time. Both classes are appropriate for everyone, whether newly diagnosed, undergoing treatment, or in remission. No yoga experience is required. Program is partially funded by the Yoga Dana Foundation and sponsored by the Piedmont Yoga Community. Classes are offered on a sliding scale and donations are greatly appreciated. No one will be turned away for lack of funds; please come as you are. The classes are ably assisted by trained and experienced yoga teachers volunteering their time to provide an enriched experience for each student, including Sharon Olson and Elaine Watson. Email Cheryl for more information or phone at (510) 290‐2641.
Living with Cancer Photo Album:
Student Testimonials: "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. "I always feel relaxed and high-spirited after class ... like a joyous two-year old. I feel taken care of. This is the best part of having a brain tumjor - Cheryl and the asssitants are wonderful!" -Judith D. "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. I tis 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. "I was terrified to even leave the house since the radiation treatments had left me incontinent. I now am healing and have less emergencies." -Ron T. "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 trian 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. "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. "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. "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.
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