For people with cancer, meditation may offer myriad benefits
when combined with standard care. Shown to reduce stress,
relieve anxiety, aid in pain management, and boost mood, regular
meditation may help cancer patients cope with their condition
(as well as with the negative side effects of cancer treatments
like chemotherapy and radiation). Meditation for People with
Cancer Meditation typically involves concentrating on your
breath, or on a repeated word or phrase (known as a "mantra").
Among the many different meditation styles is mindfulness
meditation, which emphasizes focusing your attention on the
present moment. Although meditation is often practiced on one's
own, some cancer treatment centers offer meditation sessions
guided by doctors or other mental-health professionals.
Meditation Benefits for People with Cancer While research on
meditation and cancer is somewhat limited, a number of studies
suggest that meditation may be a valuable addition to cancer
treatment. In a 2006 research review, for insta