Mind Choice: Turning Towards Difficulties

Today's post is the fourth written by Clare McLusky who provides us with an insight into her experience with cancer and the popular practice of Mindfulness. 

Clare has a Masters degree in Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy from University of Oxford and teaches Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy to people living with cancer. Clare is also a qualified Occupational Therapist, Yes to Life Helpline volunteer and one of the founding members and facilitators of Oxford Sangha, practicing in the tradition of Thich Nhat Hanh.

Do you have the patience to wait

Till your mud settles and the water is clear?

Can you remain unmoving

Till the right action arises by itself?”

Lao Tzu

I recently went on a course entitled Mindfulness Based Pain and Illness Management led by Vidyamala Birch and Gary Hennessey of Breathworks. I felt very honoured to be there, at the foot of Snowdon, with such authentic and humble teachers as Vidyamala and Gary.

Vidyamala’s teachings come direct from her own experience of living with pain for over 30 years and change in response to what she learns through her own practice. 

Luxury Chocolate Brownies

Today's post is written by Jenny Phillips who specialises in supporting cancer patients with diet & lifestyle interventions. She herself recovered from breast cancer 10 years ago. 

Jenny has kindly shared a recipe with us which is perfect for the festive season...

Here’s a Christmas treat which is good for you too! This delicious recipe is easy to make, gluten free and packed with protein from ground almonds and eggs. There is natural sweetness from the banana and this is supplemented with xylitol, a sugar alcohol that doesn’t affect blood glucose levels. And because it’s so satisfying you’ll be less likely to over indulge too. A little bit of what you fancy can indeed do you good. Enjoy!

Our First Manchester Seminar: ‘Lifestyle Choices and Cancer’

Today’s post is about our recent seminar ‘Lifestyle Choices and Cancer’ which was held on the 22nd November 2014 at the Manchester Conference centre. With talks from integrative oncologist Dr Francisco Contreras, Cancer Options’ Patricia Peat and Gloria Halim, self-confessed ‘breast cancer warrior’, the morning was full of fascinating insights. Stay up to date with future seminars on our events page or by joining our mailing list (on the right of the page).

The weekend’s grey weather could not put a dampener on the excitement of hosting our very first northern seminar. Whilst the Yes to Life office is based in London, our beneficiaries are spread across the country so reaching out to different regions is very important to us, and the welcome we received in Manchester could not have been warmer. We settled into our seats, notepads at the ready, to learn more about how lifestyle choices can influence experiences of cancer.

Puyssentut - A unique retreat for people with cancer

Today’s post is by Kirsten Chick a nutritional therapist, consultant and lecturer with over 10 years' experience. She currently works at the Vision of Hope Clinic (www.visionofhopeclinic.com), where many cancer patients seek a holistic approach, including nutritional advice, ozone therapy, vitamin C therapy and more. Here she introduces Puyssentut, a unique retreat for people with cancer to pursue recovery in the South of France.

My passion for nutrition began when I was diagnosed with cancer over 15 years ago. This was the beginning of a journey that would lead me to re-evaluate my approach to life, healing and self-nurturing. My aim is not only to share the important discoveries I've made, but to help people to find their own way, learn their own lessons and rediscover the joy and wholeness in their own lives.

Puyssentut is a very special place run by a wonderful couple with a clear and heart-led intention: “to provide a source of well-being and inspiration for people with cancer.” These are not “detox retreats” or “cancer cures”. This is something much more profound and earthy. What people with a cancer diagnosis often need most is a calming space where they can relax, be nourished and reconnect with themselves. Puyssentut provides just that.

Mike 'The Bike' cycles West Africa - Part 1

Today’s post is our first from Mike ‘the Bike’ McLellan, cycling enthusiast and long-time supporter of Yes to Life who is cycling from Italy to West Africa to embark on the adventure of a lifetime and raise lots of money to help us support people with cancer along the way.

Italy, France and Spain have been full of chance meetings and unexpected adventures, an experience of having to relinquish ideas and adapt to reality, of 'going with the flow' and allowing things to unfold. As I reach the end of the first leg of my journey, I look back at what has already been an incredible trip; the kind people I've met, the ever changing landscape, the foreign tongues, the not knowing where I will be sleeping at night but it somehow always working out!

What will you leave behind when you go?

Today's post is about the difference you can make to others through Yes to Life, by setting up a legacy.

It’s a question that many people consider at some time in their life, one that drives many to want to have a positive impact on society in one way or other, to value their friends and family, to pass on their lifetime’s wisdom through writing or some other medium, or a host of other initiatives. Many of

us have a sense of ourselves as part of a continuum that others, particularly our own children, will continue to inhabit after we are gone.

One of the greatest storehouses of potential accumulated by people takes the form of their lifetime’s savings, often, but not always in the form of their home. At the end of life, the necessity of a home or savings may disappear or be only needed in part by others. This creates an opening for doing something amazing with your ‘nest egg’ of life capital.

In order for ‘something amazing’ to be one of the possibilities your life results in for others, a little time needs to be given to considering this now, whilst you have the time and energy to devote to it.

'Your mouth is a window to your health' - Holistic Dentistry and Better Health

Today’s post is from Dr Zac Cox BDS, holistic dentist and firm believer in the body’s incredible healing capabilities. He discusses the link between dental health and disease as well as offering advice on how to achieve and maintain a healthy set of teeth and gums.

Your mouth is a window to your body’s health! In order to get back your health you’d be best advised to:

1. Add to your diet all the nutrition that it’s missing.

2. Remove your amalgams and other toxic metals but make sure it’s done safely by a holistic dentist, not your regular dentist.

3. Remove all dead teeth and all root filled teeth. Again, make sure it is done by a holistic dentist.

4. Treat jaw infections (cavitations) and treat gum disease.

Sounds drastic? Maybe, but holistic dentists and doctors are reporting that even the most life threatening dis-eases such as cancer, diabetes and heart dis-ease are positively impacted when when these simple steps are taken.

Our Yoga Workshop – A Sense of Calm

Today’s post is about our recent yoga workshop hosted by the lovely Barbara Gallani and with delicious refreshments from Gloria Halim of Rock on Divas.

On a rainy afternoon, a small group of people with cancer gathered at The Life Centre, Islington to learn more about how yoga can support the body and mind through illness.

We were welcomed with a green juice, freshly prepared by Gloria. A tangy blend of spinach, celery, cucumber, mint and green tea awakened our senses as Gloria kicked off proceedings by telling us of her own experiences. A few years ago she was diagnosed with breast cancer and embarked on a journey which led her to take charge of her own health. She re-educated and re-balanced herself and is now about to celebrate five years of living cancer free.

Take the Scare out of Losing your Hair

Today's post is by Sabine Brannan and Audrey Ball, two women who make it their business to support women through hair loss. They are joining forces to offer an exclusive workshop with Yes to Life, to help 'Take the Scare out of Losing your Hair'. The workshop is being held on Thursday October 16th at 2.30pm in Islington, London. For more information and to book tickets please click here.

As a woman the idea of losing your hair is incredibly difficult to come to terms with, yet this is the experience of around 8 million women in the UK today. Hair loss is a well-known side effect of chemotherapy, and during this especially tough time it can be even harder to find the self-confidence needed to face the world. You need not feel alone, we are here to share our experience and expertise to help you develop your own style and feel comfortable in your self, however you choose to manage and cope with your hair loss.

Breast Cancer Seminar Review 2014: The Importance of Exercise

Today's post discusses the importance of exercise to cancer patients at any stage of recovery, drawing on talks given by Ted Poulter, physical activity adviser to Macmillan, and Barbara Gallani, yoga specialist, at our recent July 2014 seminar ' Breast Cancer - The Power of Choice'. If you are interested in putting some of these ideas into practice, Barbara is running a specialised yoga workshop with us on Monday 13th October, for more information and a link to buy tickets please see our events page here.

As more and more studies are showing, exercise is an entirely natural and harm-free way to effectively support cancer treatment and recovery. At our major annual seminar we were fortunate to hear from two experts, Ted Poulter and Barbara Gallani, who offered practical advice on how to go about improving health with physical activity.

Ted is a senior adviser for Macmillan and having been through cancer treatment himself, offered a very personal understanding and overview of the importance of physical activity for recovery. Ted began by admitting it was a lot easier to preach than to practice but by the end of his talk it was clear that this was an effort worth making. Studies by the ACSM (American College of Sports Medicine) shows that exercise has no adverse effects and can improve health in many areas including aerobic capacity, muscular strength, reducing fatigue, slowing disease progression and contributing to protection from recurrence. Benefits have been studied in breast, colorectal, prostate and haematological cancer (which account for 50% of cancers in the UK) and particularly in breast cancer.

The Road to Transylvania 2014 pt. 5 - The Ride of a Lifetime

Today's post is from our champion cyclist and fundraiser Paul Stevens who recounts his Transfagarasan cycle challenge, all in the name of raising money for Yes to Life. The total stands at over £2000 and if Paul's incredible efforts have been an inspiration to you then it is still possible to donate here. Congratulations Paul and a huge thank you from Yes to Life!

I have just arrived back from my Romanian cycle trip and I have to say it was one of the best times so far where scenery and memories were concerned, albeit the absolute worst so far in terms of cycling in pain! Coming back to find out I had exceeded my fundraising target however made it all worth while, so I want to say a massive thank you to everyone who sponsored me.

For those of you who have been following my adventure, or those taking a new interest in the inadvisable things you can attempt with a bicycle, here is a little about each day -

Yes to Life - Ten Years On

Today's post is written by Yes to Life's founder Robin Daly, who discusses how the charity came into being, the journey it has taken in the last decade and the personal reasons he is determined to see it continue to grow.

This summer it is ten years since the event that propelled me into creating Yes to Life as a charity - the untimely death of my beautiful 23 year old daughter, Bryony. At that time, Yes to Life already existed as a Trust to raise money for treatment to help Bryony, and the desperate need for a charity to support others with cancer looking for answers outside of standard treatments had already been acknowledged.

Top 10 benefits of omega-3 EPA for cancer patients

Today's post is written by Sophie Tully and Dr Nina Bailey from Igennus Healthcare Nutrition, which focuses on providing natural means of improving health based on scientific research.

Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) is a long-chain omega-3 fat which is associated with considerable health benefits. Much research has been carried out to understand the role of EPA in heart, brain and mental health; a huge body of evidence is emerging to show that EPA plays a significant role in the prevention, control and recovery from cancer. Here are the top actions of EPA in cancer prevention and recovery, according to the latest published research. 

The Road to Transylvania 2014 pt. 4 - The Final Training Post

Today is our fourth post from Paul Stevens, a long-time Yes to Life supporter who is about to take on a mammoth cycle adventure to Transylvania, raising over £2000 for Yes to Life! Thanks Paul for your incredible effort and wishing you the very best of luck.

This year’s ride really started in Piccadilly in January, at a meeting between me and Robin Daly of Yes to Life. Having completed BIKEast, it was time to put in place BIKEast II. We planned and schemed and eventually, Robin left the whole thing in my hands. (Thanks Robin!!!) 

It was decided to make this years ride a ‘one-off’, allowing all of the trusty bikers to talk en-route about what we would like to do from 2015 onwards. (Watch this space!)

The Benefits of Broccoli Sprouts

Today’s post is by Oliver Dowding, an organic farmer from South East Somerset who produces broccoli sprout and wheatgrass juice for their incredible health properties.

With something like 50 trillion cells comprising our bodies, we’re in charge of one humongous life system. We are also in charge of something more sophisticated than any machine which man has ever created, including the most apparently phenomenal supercomputers. Yet how do we treat this wonderful body of ours? Sadly, we often don’t treat it nearly well enough.

We are a culture saturated in process-adulterated and additive laden food, which is highly inadequate to please our cellular structure and deliver its needs. If we want our ‘machine’ to operate at optimum levels, what we actually require is the finest nutrition. Yet when our body, this finely-tuned mechanism, breaks down and we suffer disease (dis-ease), we turn to the medical profession where chemical and pharmaceutical solutions are usually the first port of call. Whilst in some ways this is understandable, unfortunately these drugs and procedures can also have the effect of putting immense stress on the body, distorting and distracting its natural mechanism.

So is there another way to improve health? I would suggest certainly yes, and diet is the perfect place to start. The broccoli sprout and wheatgrass juices I produce are just one example of the incredible health enhancing properties that can be found in natural and organic foods.

You've Kicked Cancer's Butt...So Now What?

Today's post is by Gloria Halim, holistic health coach, founder of Rock On Divas and author of 'Healing Foods Healthy Foods'. She writes about her experiences improving well-being and why if you are in need of a boost, the Rock On Divas Renew & Energize Retreat (19th-20th September) could be just for you!

I started on my health and wellness journey after being diagnosed and going through breast cancer treatment five years ago. Coming to the end of major treatment, I started asking questions and doing research into how I could heal and stay healthy after treatment. I needed to do something in order to keep myself from walking this cancer treatment journey ever again. Through my research and studying, I found there was a lot I could do and the place to start was to change my diet and lifestyle.

The Road to Transylvania 2014 pt. 3

Today is our third post from Paul Stevens, a long-time Yes To Life supporter who is taking part in our cycle adventure to Transylvania in September 2014 and hoping to raise lots of money on the way! 

D-Day minus one month is upon me and if training has not been too high on the agenda, it needs to be now! It is a matter of pushing yourself hard, as the joys of climbing the Romanian mountains twice is not so far away.

This diagram shows our first climb, which will take place on day two. If you can read it, it shows we will be ascending over 2000 meters in less than 9km, at an angle of almost 45 degrees! That's probably two hours of hard uphill graft, a fantastic incentive to keep training!

Breast Cancer Seminar Review 2014: The Power of Choice with Dr. Contreras

Today's post follows on from our major annual seminar 'Breast Cancer - The Power of Choice' held on Saturday 4th of July 2014. The event was headlined by world renowned integrative oncologist Dr. Francisco Contreras from Oasis of Hope Hospital in Mexico, who alongside other experts aimed to separate myth from fact and share his extensive experience.

The UK has one of the highest incidence rates of breast cancer in the world and unfortunately it is a figure which is only rising. So as we sat to begin Yes to Life’s major annual seminar on the topic, it was not without the sense of standing up to issues which in some way affects us all. Hosted by Yes to Life’s founder Robin Daly, the event took place on Saturday 4^th July at the beautifully historic Glazier’s Hall. Leading oncologists, doctors, nurses and health care professionals gathered with patients and carers to talk about the facts about breast cancer, the myths, the options open for sufferers and most importantly the hope for a healthier future.

The Road to Transylvania 2014 pt. 2

Today is our second post from Paul Stevens, a long-time Yes To Life supporter who is taking part in our cycle adventure to Transylvania in September 2014 and hoping to raise lots of money on the way!

Well it’s been a while since my last writings and training has been going well. Well, it’s been going! To be fair I am still overweight and I really don’t think that will ever change!!!

I am cycling to work at least twice a week, still wishing the weather would actually brighten up. A beautiful sunny day is the best type of weather to cycle in and home.

Breast Cancer Seminar 2014 - The Power of Choice

Today’s post is about our annual major seminar which is being held on Saturday 5^th July 2014 from 9.30am to 4.30pm at Glazier’s Hall in London Bridge. This year we focus on the most common cancer for women in the UK today, Breast Cancer. To purchase tickets (lunch and refreshments included) please click here.

Most of us know someone who has had breast cancer. It is in fact the most common form of cancer in the UK today. Incidence rates have increased by a whopping 70% since the mid-1970’s and although orthodox

treatments have developed over the last few decades, thousands of people still die every year. Yes to Life’s seminar aims to bring to light alternative ways to support your body through breast cancer. With a stellar cast of speakers, from everyday women who have fought extraordinary battles, to professionals who have spent their careers finding the best ways to arm them, we hope to shed some light on the choices that can make all the difference.

Top 5 Breakfasts to Boost your Immune Health

Today's post is by nutritionist Kyla Williams from Igennus Healthcare Nutrition. Kyla has an educational background in science and a master's degree in Nutritional Medicine. She has a deep understanding of the complexities of nutrition, including diet, lifestyle and supplements. Kyla is Igennus' London-based Nutrition Technical Advisor and also runs her own practice as a clinical nutritionist specialising in skin disorders, digestive issues and weight management.

Whether you are recovering from chemotherapy or trying to fend off the occasional cold, it is always worthwhile to keep your immune system working in tip top condition. Starting the day with a nutritious breakfast is a great way to support your body in fighting off infections, and keeping you feeling well. Here are my ‘top 5 breakfasts’ which are all absolutely delicious and full of healthy nutrition!

1. Raspberry almond pancakes. Pancakes can be very healthy with the right ingredients, and what a great way to start your day! Instead of the usual highly refined wheat-based pancakes, why not opt for something full of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, protein and antioxidants.

Mind Choice: Being with Uncertainty

Today's post is the third written by Clare McLusky who provides us with an insight into her experience with cancer and the popular practice of Mindfulness. 

Clare has a Masters degree in Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy from University of Oxford and teaches Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy to people living with cancer. Clare is also a qualified Occupational Therapist, Yes to Life Helpline volunteer and one of the founding members and facilitators of Oxford Sangha, practicing in the tradition of Thich Nhat Hanh.

My experience over the last two weeks has been a strong reminder of how difficult it is to be with uncertainty, by which I mean staying present with the sheer awfulness of not knowing.  For me this meant not pushing for answers or trying to ‘fix’ things but letting go and allowing things to unfold in their own time.  It also meant not self-medicating with TV or food or wine or endless chatter or searching for solutions but being present to the mind states and emotions that passed through.  To begin with I literally felt weighed down by it and was physically dragging myself around – my mind heavy and numb.  Then the cracks in this armour of a mental state started allowing the sadness of the situation to wash through my heart and I’d find myself in tears but somehow that was refreshing, at least I felt alive.

Puy Lentil & Feta Roasted Vegetables

Today's post is written by Jenny Phillips who specialises in supporting cancer patients with diet & lifestyle interventions. She herself recovered from breast cancer 10 years ago. 

Jenny has kindly shared a simple summer supper, if only the rain would break for a while!

This recipe combines delicious Mediterranean flavours and is quick and easy to prepare. If you are completely dairy free simply substitute the feta with tofu. I do find that many people tolerate goats and sheep’s cheese very much better than cow’s dairy. They are also less oestrogenic than cow’s milk and may be a better choice for those concerned about hormone levels (1).

We served this dish with a rocket, avocado and sundried tomato salad, and to drink? Fresh lemon, coconut water and ginger topped up with fizzy water. Tres refreshing!

The Road to Transylvania 2014 pt.1

Today's post is from Paul Stevens, a long-time Yes To Life supporter who is taking part in our cycle adventure to Transylvania in September 2014 and hoping to raise lots of money on the way!

I have begun my Romania training in earnest. I have started cycling to work again!!!

I live in Potters Bar and work near Oxford Circus. Getting up at 6am, cleaning my teeth and donning my lycra ready for the ride is hard, I don't deny it. It is however of great benefit as when I get home at night I don't have to train…Amazing!!

The great thing about this kind of training is two-fold. Firstly, all I want to do is get into work in the mornings and all I want to do at night is get home, so I push just that little bit harder on each journey, which makes for great ''interval training''. There are also a lot of other cyclists about, so it brings out the unspoken ''competitor'' in me, as I strive to catch up with people in front and not let others cruise past. The primary thing is stamina and leg strength, you need to get your legs used to constantly spinning. Nothing beats getting out on your bike, but if that's not convenient try a spin class or two, either instead of or as well as getting out riding.

Reflexology: Supporting people living with Cancer

Today's post is written by Tracey Smith,  who is Reflexology and Research Manager for the Association of Reflexologists. She discusses the potentials of reflexology to support cancer care and better health.

The theory behind reflexology is that it returns the various systems of the body back to homeostasis, or back to working at their natural level and in doing so that it helps all systems work properly with each other. Reflexology does not claim to cure. It aims to support you through the bad times and may claim only to help relaxation and stress, however as stress is involved in many illnesses the prevention or reduction of stress may well help you. With a reduction in stress many other ‘problems’ may benefit. Reflexology can also help with tension release, relaxation and improve well-being.

Cashew Nut and Spinach Soup

Today's post is written by Jenny Phillips who specialises in supporting cancer patients with diet & lifestyle interventions. She herself recovered from breast cancer 10 years ago. 

Jenny has kindly shared a recipe with us which contains spinach, a vegetable packed with vitamins and minerals.

Cashew Nut and Spinach Soup

Green leafy vegetables really are a superfood – and spinach is no exception. Optimising cellular health is a key anti-cancer strategy and spinach is a fantastic source of B vitamins, which are essential for cellular energy production. It also contains high quantities of natural folate, one of the vitamins to protect against anaemia. Folate is essential for cell replication and the very important process of methylation which regulates gene expression.

Spinach is also a rich source of minerals including magnesium, an essential nutrient for energy production, the maintenance and repair of healthy cells and bone health, and one of the best plant sources of iron.

This soup is fast to make, particularly if the vegetables are pre-cooked. It’s just simply a case of blending cashews, vegetables, hot water and stock to have a meal on the table in minutes.

The coconut cream can be switched for soft goat’s cheese if you are including goat’s dairy within your eating plan.

From 'Why me?' to 'What more do I want from life?'.

Today's post is written by Claire Timmerman who was diagnosed with ovarian cancer when she was 24 years old. She has very kindly shared her story with us in the hope that it will inspire others to remain positive when facing a cancer diagnosis, and in life after treatment.

Claire and her husband hold Simply Sumptuous retreats in Orgiva, Southern Spain. One of the retreats - 'Women and Cancer' (7th - 14th June 2014) - is dedicated to women who have experienced cancer.

When I was 24, I was out having drinks with friends one night.  It was Friday 13^th and all of a sudden I found myself doubled over in pain.  Not one to normally leave a bar early - well I was only 24 - I went home.  The weekend was spent with sporadic bursts of a similar abdominal pain until finally on Monday, I went to the doctor, who sent me to hospital that night. The next morning I found myself having emergency surgery for the removal of a large ovarian cyst – the size of a cantaloupe melon!  I never imagined that a few days later they would tell me that the cyst was part malignant – I had ovarian cancer.  It was a surreal feeling.  Even afterwards, when friends and relatives would be in touch and they would be in tears, it just felt odd. 

BIKEast 2014 Transylvanian Transfagarasan Cycling Adventure - are you up for the challenge?

Our Yes to Life bikers thought they had cracked it with the last leg of the BIKEast Challenge when they made it to Istanbul. They looked longingly at the photos of gleaming faces and reconnect with the euphoria whilst reminiscing that incredible journey. 

Well it’s time to oil up the bike chain, get back into the saddle and start training for the next big adventure with the Yes to Life team of bikers and a host of new bikers.

A Mid-Week Treat: Prawn and Mango Curry Recipe

Today's post is written by Jenny Phillips who specialises in supporting cancer patients with diet & lifestyle interventions. She herself recovered from breast cancer 10 years ago. 

Jenny has kindly shared a recipe with us which contains turmeric, a spice which can make a positive contribution to your health. 

The Golden Spice: a recipe to brighten up your day

Turmeric is the bright yellow spice most often used in South Asian and Middle Eastern cuisine. It adds a golden colour and is frequently used along with other spices to create a curry flavour. In this easy to make recipe it is paired with cumin in a creamy coconut sauce. The mango adds a subtle sweetness.

The active ingredient within turmeric is curcumin, and this has powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It is one of the ten supplements discussed in a review by the Society of Integrative Oncology (1), who quote:

“Curcumin has been shown to prevent a large number of

cancers in animal studies. Laboratory data indicate that

curcumin can inhibit tumor initiation, promotion, invasion,

angiogenesis, and metastasis.”

Although this curry will not deliver curcumin at therapeutic levels, eating this spice within meals increases its absorption, and may make a small but positive contribution to overall health.

PRAWN & MANGO CURRY

www.michellesouthphotography.com

Top Ten Nutrients and Lifestyle Tips to Support Mental Wellbeing

Today's post is written by Sophie Tully, the Nutrition Education Manager at Igennus Healthcare Nutrition. Igennus Healthcare Nutrition focus on providing natural means of improving health based on scientific research. 

Top Ten Nutrients and Lifestyle Tips to Support Mental Wellbeing

During cancer treatment and recovery, it can be extremely difficult to stay mentally positive and happy. Stress, anxiety and even depression are understandably common in cancer patients, yet we all know the benefits of a positive mental attitude when it comes to being healthy and able to fight illness.  Stress and low mood can deplete the body’s resources while it’s repairing the damage caused by increased stress hormones and inflammatory stimulation. As a result, it becomes much harder to focus on fighting cancer and getting better. But, fear not, there are a number of stress-busting foods and nutrients that can not only help to calm anxiety, reduce stress and lift your mood but can actually boost your immune system too.

Mind Choice: Seize the day

Today's post is the second post written by Clare McLusky who provides us with an insight into her experience with cancer and the popular practice of Mindfulness. 

Clare has a Masters degree in Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy from University of Oxford and teaches Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy to people living with cancer. Clare is also a qualified Occupational Therapist, Yes to Life Helpline volunteer and one of the founding members and facilitators of Oxford Sangha, practicing in the tradition of Thich Nhat Hanh.

January was a real struggle and it took me practically the whole month to recover from Christmas and to feel alive and focused again.  The festive period combined with the school holidays is frequently a time when I find myself becoming scattered and depleted.  The culmination is that I drift along feeling tired, eating more, meditating less and becoming increasingly unaware of where my attention is and consequently making less choices in the moment, for example, about whether or not to follow a train of thought.  I am more reactive than responsive to life.  This vicious cycle keeps going until I have a deadline that can no longer be put off.  I then do the necessary to feel alive and focused again in order to get the job done, which for me is a return to healthy eating, exercise, meditation, journal writing and setting intentions.  Thank goodness for deadlines!

Your Mitochondria and Cancer

Today's post, written by Xandria Williams, discusses mitochondrial damage and highlights the importance of lifestyle and diet when it comes to preventing, and recovering from, cancer. 

This is an excerpt from Xandria Williams' latest book 'Detecting Cancer' which is now available for purchase. 'Detecting Cancer' is the third book in her 'Cancer Quintet', of which the first two are 'Vital Signs for Cancer' and 'Cancer Concerns'. Xandria Williams has worked as a Nutritional Biochemist and Naturopath for over thirty years. For the past ten years she has had a particular interest in researching cancer as a process, and the ways in which nutritional, plant and other natural substances can be used to help restore health

  

YOUR MITOCHONDRIA AND CANCER

 “The cause of cancer is no longer a mystery; we know it occurs whenever any cell is denied 60% of its oxygen requirements.”[i]

“Cancer, above all other diseases, has countless secondary causes. But, even for cancer, there is only one prime cause. …the prime cause of cancer is the replacement of the respiration of oxygen in normal body cells by a fermentation of sugar.”[ii]

Thus stated Nobel Prize Winner Dr Otto Warburg 90 years ago.

Changing Sides

This post was written by one of our long time supporters, Jane Fior, a psychotherapist who for the last 23 years has been supporting cancer patients and those close to them face the impact, feelings and challenges of a cancer diagnosis and treatment that ensues.  In 2013 Jane was diagnosed with cancer and this is her truly moving story.  We thank Jane for sharing this with us.

I am a psychotherapist and for the last twenty-three years I have been supporting cancer patients and those close to them face the impact, feelings and challenges that a cancer diagnosis and treatment brings in its wake. I have always been interested in the role of complementary therapies and a keen supporter of an integrated approach.

Although I had not had cancer myself, with the exception of a scare in my mid-30s, through my clients, I learned how different reactions can be from person to person, no matter what the prognosis, and how certain key points can turn out to be the hardest to navigate for that individual. Not surprisingly, these are prompted by how you are given the news that you have cancer, how you get on with your medical team, coping with the side effects of the treatment including loss of hair, physical symptoms and bodily changes, the end of treatment, the challenge of recurrence and the shift to palliative care. In other words, vicariously, I was familiar with the terrain.

Top Nutraceuticals for Cancer Management

Today's post is written by Dr Nina Bailey, Head of Clinical Nutrition at Igennus Healthcare Nutrition. Igennus Healthcare Nutrition focus on providing natural means of improving health based on scientific research.

This post looks at the top Nutraceuticals for Cancer Management.

A high rate of cell proliferation (cell division) and a low rate of apoptosis (programmed cell death) are the hallmark of the abnormal cell growth attributed to cancer. In addition, inflammation in the tumour microenvironment is now recognised as one of the hallmarks of cancer. The anti-proliferative effects of several naturally occurring substances which offer anti-inflammatory properties and the ability to induce programmed cell death suggest that some key supplements may have a significant impact on halting disease progression.