If you've had surgery ( and have had lymph nodes removed) and /or radiation for cancer in the lower half of your body, you are at some risk of developing lymphedema or swelling of the lower trunk, or leg(s) weeks or even years post treatment. The purpose of this routine is warm up and prepare your lymph system for more activity, or simply a way to keep your immune system from becoming stagnant. By gently moving in a rhythmic sequence, the muscles "massage" the lymph vessels and get the lymph fluid moving so that it does not accumulate. It also prepares the system to accommodate more fluid waste that develops from more vigorous exercise or activity. This is also a great general routine do as cool down after activity such as walking, biking or strength training.

If you've had radiation or surgery to remove lymph nodes for cancer of the breast, you are at some risk of developing lymphedema or swelling of the trunk, chest or arm, weeks or even years post treatment. The purpose of this routine is warm up and prepare your lymph system for more activity. By gently moving in a rhythmic sequence, the muscles "massage" the lymph vessels and get the lymph fluid moving so that the fluid does not accumulate. It also prepares it so that it can accommodate more fluid waste that develops from potentially more vigorous exercise such as fast walking, biking, or strength training. This is also a great general routine do after being sedentary by sitting or standing for long periods of time.

Breast cancer recovery can leave a person with a variety of issues both physical and emotional. Shoulder and arm pit tightness, neck stiffness, core weakness, diminished self image/esteem and a disconnect or sense of not being in control of one's body can be some of these struggles. There is solid evidence that Pilates can help improve these issues in a safe and effective manner. This 2 part series is geared toward the beginner and takes into account a breast cancer diagnosis. You will learn about 5 concepts (breathing, pelvic placement, rib placement, shoulder blade stability/mobility, and cervical spine placement) that are necessary to understand to do these exercises with good form and body connection. Eight exercises will be described and in the second part will be demonstrated. A hand out of the exercises are available by emailing a request to Livewellfitnessce.com or may soon be available as an attachment to this class.

This presentation will discuss the most common postural deviations that can develop as a consequence to surgery and/or radiation as a treatment for cancer. It will also discuss and describe how to recognize and change the poor posture slowly and safely with exercises that can be performed at home. Please get a doctors permission before attempting these exercises, especially if your last treatment was less that 6 month ago