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.