Patient Leaflets — 8/11/2026

Yoga, Breathing and Relaxation During Cancer Treatment

Gentle practices—not another treatment to "fight cancer"

Ayurveda & Integrative

Can yoga be used during cancer treatment?

For many people, appropriately modified yoga, breathing and relaxation practices can be useful as supportive care.

Research suggests that yoga and other mind–body practices may help with outcomes such as fatigue, sleep and emotional distress in some people with cancer. 

What can a gentle programme include?

Depending on your health, it may include:

Gentle stretching

Comfortable movement

Simple breathing practices

Relaxation

Meditation

Body awareness

What should I NOT do?

Do not assume that a vigorous yoga practice is appropriate simply because you were healthy before cancer.

Avoid practices that cause:

Pain

Breathlessness

Dizziness

Excessive fatigue

Your programme should take into account your surgery, treatment, strength, balance and medical condition.

Who should guide you?

Ideally, work with a yoga professional who understands cancer care and is willing to coordinate with your healthcare team.

Remember

Yoga is a supportive practice.

It should not be promoted as a way to cure cancer or replace cancer treatment.

This information is intended for education and supportive care. It does not replace consultation, diagnosis or treatment by a qualified healthcare professional. If you have cancer, do not stop, delay or change prescribed cancer treatment because of information found on this website. Tell your cancer-care team about all medicines, Ayurvedic preparations, herbs, vitamins and supplements you use. This is especially important for the Ayurveda section because interactions between cancer medicines and supplements/herbal products can occur.

Reliable sources: National Cancer Institute (NCI), World Health Organization (WHO), relevant national cancer-care guidelines, and appropriate peer-reviewed evidence.

Dr. Aakash Kembhavi

MD (Ayu-Shalya), PGDMLS, MS (Counseling & Psychotherapy) | Academician, Clinician & Researcher | Chief Editor, International Journal of Ayurveda

Founder of Cancer Support India.