As of January 1, 2012, there were 2.9 million women who were living with a breast cancer diagnosis, cancer-free and not. Survival of breast cancer was increased by 34% between 2000 to 2010, due in part to early detection and more effective therapies. Some keys to healing from breast cancer are strengthening the immune system, diminishing stressors on the body, improving mood (positive attitude), dealing with the side effects of treatment, and finding positive avenues to deal with the variety of emotions that arise with a diagnosis of breast cancer.
A study, published in the July 2004 Journal of Psychosomatic Research, showed positive benefits for women with breast cancer. It was concluded that “Women with Stage 1 and 2 breast cancer may benefit from thrice-weekly massage therapy for reducing depressed mood, anxiety, and anger and for enhancing dopamine, serotonin, and NK cell number and lymphocytes.” Why might this be? Various massage studies have shown that:
Massage
is effective in reducing stress by reducing the level of cortisol (stress
hormone) in the blood.
Massage
is an effective treatment for reducing pain and muscle tension.
Some
people enjoy massage because it can be a safe, comforting place, and it provides a
connection with another person.
Anxiety
and depression are relieved with massage therapy.
Massage
can boost white blood cells count.
Massage
therapy, in this day and age, is not just another
pamper session. I would encourage you to
schedule regular sessions with me, or with a local-to-you valuable
therapist. And if you are facing the
cancer monster, it is vital to your success that you include massage therapy in
your treatment plan.
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