I’ve heard that exercise can reduce stress. But won’t it use up energy my spouse should use to fight the cancer?

35. I’ve heard that exercise can reduce stress.
But won’t it use up energy my spouse should
use to fight the cancer?

Under the supervision of a doctor, moderate
exercise and activity can help patients combat fatigue
and maintain muscle strength.

Recent research is showing positive benefits of exercise
for some people with cancer. Under the supervision of
a doctor, moderate exercise and activity can help
patients combat fatigue and maintain muscle strength,
which can be diminished by surgery and other treatments.

Exercise also helps patients to decrease anxiety,
reduce feelings of depression, and maintain a positive
body image. Some hospitals are incorporating exercise
classes, including yoga, chair aerobics, and personal
training, all facilitated by specially trained experts.

Yoga = An ancient Hindu system of philosophy
that employs physical exercise and diet 
restrictions to control the functioning of
the mind and body.

If your spouse is interested, help him by investigating
local exercise programs, either through the hospital, a
local gym, physical therapist, or community group, and
be sure someone who has experience working with
people with cancer leads the programs. It is crucial
that patients undergo any exercise routine safely to
avoid injury and to benefit from the exercise. The cost
of such services and programs varies. However, community
groups such as senior centers, Gilda’s Club,
and the American Cancer Society sometimes sponsor
exercise activities free of charge.

People also can increase activity in their everyday lives
without going to classes or a gym by walking more or
taking the stairs at the hospital instead of the elevator,
even if they have the energy for just one flight. One
patient, who was having a hard time with fatigue due
to his chemotherapy and radiation therapy, felt that
walking his hallway several times a day kept his body
working and helped maintain his mental strength as
well. Being active includes fun things too, like shopping
at the mall, walking the dog, or playing with the
kids. Doing activities with the patient can allow for
quality time together. And having an exercise partner
will be good motivation for both of you, since exercise
can be an important part of reducing stress and
improving health. Keep it fun!