What tools are available for someone battling a deadly form of cancer? Each year, an increasing number of cancer survivors and their health teams have begun to look toward alternative forms of therapy to assist in their struggle. Although the choice to refuse mainstream medical treatment can be a dangerous one, there are many complementary treatments that even conservative and skeptical physicians acknowledge as having powerful therapeutic effects on those battling cancer. There are no proven instances of alternative or complementary treatments curing cancer, although there are many reports of "miracles."
What physicians do admit, including the American Cancer Society, is that a number of complementary methods can and will improve the health, well-being and quality of life of those battling cancer. Much of the value of these treatments comes in the form of improving the mental state of the patient and their family and as a way of reducing the negative side effects of conventional methods, such as chemotherapy. Studies have shown that the people most successful at conquering cancer and recovering are those who maintain the most positive mindset. Any tool that can improve the outlook is vital.
There are many things that a warrior against cancer can use to improve their mental state. Prayer and spirituality are often key, helping the patient to place their struggle in perspective and understand the meaning of life and death. The inner peace gained is tremendously valuable. Aromatherapy, art and music therapy, and various meditative practices can help to keep the mind of the patient dwelling in the light. The physical aspects of cancer and its treatment require even more technique.
Beginning with the basics, the most important thing a patient can do is to be mindful of their diet. In addition to providing good fuel for a long life, the right dietary choices can strengthen the parts of the body that need the most strength. Supplements and herbal therapy have also been found to be effective, especially in helping to alleviate pain and nausea. Acupuncture, massage, biofeedback, tai chi, and yoga have all demonstrated a powerful ability to reduce the negative physical side effects of cancer and its treatments.
What physicians do admit, including the American Cancer Society, is that a number of complementary methods can and will improve the health, well-being and quality of life of those battling cancer. Much of the value of these treatments comes in the form of improving the mental state of the patient and their family and as a way of reducing the negative side effects of conventional methods, such as chemotherapy. Studies have shown that the people most successful at conquering cancer and recovering are those who maintain the most positive mindset. Any tool that can improve the outlook is vital.
There are many things that a warrior against cancer can use to improve their mental state. Prayer and spirituality are often key, helping the patient to place their struggle in perspective and understand the meaning of life and death. The inner peace gained is tremendously valuable. Aromatherapy, art and music therapy, and various meditative practices can help to keep the mind of the patient dwelling in the light. The physical aspects of cancer and its treatment require even more technique.
Beginning with the basics, the most important thing a patient can do is to be mindful of their diet. In addition to providing good fuel for a long life, the right dietary choices can strengthen the parts of the body that need the most strength. Supplements and herbal therapy have also been found to be effective, especially in helping to alleviate pain and nausea. Acupuncture, massage, biofeedback, tai chi, and yoga have all demonstrated a powerful ability to reduce the negative physical side effects of cancer and its treatments.
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