A Smile Workout for Persons with Cancer and Chronic Health Conditions

When cancer and chronic health conditions arrive, smiling may feel like a workout. As you process the news about your diagnosis, many different thoughts and feelings arise. When I heard the word cancer, I was fraught with anxiety and downright fear. As my brain tried to figure things out, I struggled to stay in the present moment. As my deepest fears surfaced, I needed a way to process this energy in a healthy way. Meditative Movements™ became a crucial component of my self-care plan.

Acknowledging and feeling all our emotions is essential to good health. Because our thoughts, emotions and behaviors are intertwined, we need to take time to be with ourselves. One way to do this is by practicing Meditative Movements. It is a simple technique that integrates therapeutic physical movements that are adaptable to anyone's physical ability with the breath and spoken core value affirmations. As you move throughout your routine day, you can release difficult emotions like anger, disappointment, and worry. At other times you can give yourself love and support by practicing movements that give you a sense of safety and stability. Best of all the movements can be done at home, waiting in doctor's offices, at appointments and in the hospital.

Meditative Movements honors your mind and body union in a new way. It integrates western science with modern day philosophies and ancient wisdom. A 2017 University of Minnesota research study found our program reduces anxiety, depression and fatigue while improving emotional and functional wellbeing for persons with chronic health conditions.

You are invited to practice the I Smile Meditative Movement™ for yourself. Smiling has so many benefits and it uses anywhere from 5 to 53 facial muscles. When you consciously practice the movement, you can pay closer attention to what a smile does for you and to you. You can mindfully explore this powerful movement that enhances your precious moments. Then if you feel so inclined, you can share your smile with those who love you and are helping you navigate your healing journey.