Yoga Therapy and Breast Cancer (APD)
Yoga Therapy and Breast Cancer
This course offers an in-depth and compassionate exploration of yoga therapy for individuals navigating breast cancer, from diagnosis through recovery and survivorship. Designed for yoga therapists and healthcare professionals, it combines the science of healing with the art of presence.
Students learn to assess a client’s medical history, treatment path, and post-surgical needs—from lumpectomy and mastectomy to lymph node dissection, chemotherapy, radiation, and reconstruction—and apply safe, individualized yoga therapy protocols that foster resilience, mobility, and hope.
Through the lens of the Pancha Maya model, you’ll address healing across all layers of being—physical, energetic, emotional, mental, and spiritual. Practices include breathwork, meditation, gentle strengthening, and lymphatic-supportive movement, designed to meet clients where they are and restore confidence in their bodies.
The course also integrates trauma-informed language and yoga psychology to help clients process identity shifts, fear of recurrence, and body image changes. You’ll learn when to apply langhana (calming) or brahmana (energizing) strategies and how to adapt sequences for neuropathy, fatigue, and limited range of motion.
By the end of this training, you’ll have the tools to offer safe, supportive, and empowering yoga therapy for those affected by breast cancer—helping clients rebuild strength, regain trust in their bodies, and reconnect with inner peace.
Textbooks:
- The Healing Path of Yoga by Nichala Joy Devi
- Exercise for Joints and Glands by Swami Rama
- The Principles and Practice of Yoga in Health Care by Sat Bir Singh Khalsa.
- Yoga Therapy by A.G Mohan and Indra Mohan
Materials to Bring:
- Chair
- Standard yoga props (2 blocks, blankets, bolsters, and strap).
Course Completion Requirements:
- Attending Live or Watching the Recordings
- Passing the End of Pillar Quiz
- Project Completion:
Key Training Homework: The Lymphatic and Endocrine System
- Explore how the lymphatic and endocrine systems contribute to immune balance and stress regulation—especially in cancer recovery. You'll review key anatomical structures, common concerns like lymphedema, and supportive yoga therapy tools. Reflect on practices that aid lymphatic flow and hormonal balance, then integrate techniques like gentle inversions, breathwork, and self-massage into a 3-day self-study practice to observe shifts in your physical and emotional well-being.
Retreat Homework
- Apply your knowledge of the pancha maya kosha model, Ayurveda, and yoga therapy to three unique case studies. You'll assess each individual’s stage of healing, design customized plans, and consider practices that support body, breath, mind, and spirit. Special focus is placed on trauma-informed care, emotional readiness, and honoring each person’s lived experience over protocol. Reflection questions guide deeper integration and discussion during mentoring groups.
*Page numbers given in lecture might not match up with the numbers in your source material if you are taking this course asynchronous
Submit final project to dani@pranayogaschool.com