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Yoga helps women heal: U of A study – Metro US

Yoga helps women heal: U of A study

Many people practise yoga for relaxation purposes and health benefits. However, a study at the University of Alberta shows the benefits of Iyengar yoga goes much further than being healthy — it can change lives.

Breast cancer survivor Alexandra Hildebrandt was a participant in the study and described how the class has helped her body.

“I had lymphedema and if I do the poses regularly, after a couple of days there’s significantly reduced swelling,” said Hildebrandt. “You use so many props so it allows you to do fewer poses in class, but you hold them for longer and you can really relax and stretch into the poses.”

The 10-week study, led by Amy Speed-Andrews, required women diagnosed with breast cancer, in a survivorship stage, to participate in a before and after questionnaire.

“The feedback we received from the women was very positive,” Speed-Andrews said.

Hildebrandt has continued to do Iyengar yoga, even after completing the study.

“I’m running in the half-marathon this Sunday. I’m back in business,” she said.