An 11 hour intensive training program for yoga
teachers, oncology massage therapists,
lymphedema
specialists, and physical therapists
This comprehensive program is
designed to provide professionals with additional tools to
meet the unique physical and emotional needs of cancer
patients and survivors using specialized gentle restorative
yoga poses and movement. Leading a yoga class for cancer
patients and survivors, especially those with breast cancer,
is much different than leading your usual yoga class.
The training addresses issues
associated with treatment, such as stimulating the lymphatic
and cardiovascular systems affected by sitting for extended
periods of time during chemotherapy, improving range of
motion after surgery, and calming the anxiety that often
accompanies diagnosis and treatment. Modification of poses
will be covered for patients with ports, neuropathy, weak
muscles or fragile bones due to treatment, and skin
sensitivities that may occur during radiation or
reconstruction.
As important as understanding the
physical limitations of those who will come to you for help,
is understanding the psychological effects. Approaching each
pose for each patient with humor, knowledge, and a positive
attitude will provide them with the reassurance they need to
reap the most benefit from yoga.
Topics covered include:
- Anatomy
of Breast Cancer and Yoga
- Cancer Treatments and Side Effects
- Assessing Physical Limitations
-
Importance of Breathe Work
- Helpful
vs. Harmful Poses and Props
-
Adaptations for Comfort and Safety
-
Dealing with Emotions of Fear and Anxiety
The curriculum begins with a
focused 8-hour session that integrates hands-on training
alongside instructive lectures. This phase provides
foundational understanding of Restorative Yoga for Cancer
principles, therapeutic techniques, and the unique needs of
the patient and survivor community. Emphasis is placed on
safe practice, compassionate instruction, and creating a
supportive class environment.
Following the classroom
instruction, participants engage directly with the community
by attending a minimum of two one-hour Restorative Yoga
classes. These sessions are conducted with patients and
survivors under the guidance of experienced instructors.
This immersive exposure allows trainees to observe
real-world application of techniques, understand participant
responses, and refine their teaching approach in a live
setting.
The final and most pivotal element
of the program is the opportunity for participants to lead a
full one-hour Restorative Yoga class themselves. During this
session, an instructor will observe and provide constructive
feedback, ensuring the trainee’s readiness to confidently
and competently guide future classes independently.
This specialized program has been
thoughtfully developed by Pinkhippy.org with the expert
guidance of doctors, nurses, and cancer care specialists,
ensuring a strong foundation in medical knowledge and
patient-centered care. What sets this program apart is its
collaborative teaching approach, led by an oncology massage
and lymphedema therapy specialist together with a yoga
instructor who is also a cancer survivor. This unique
partnership brings both professional expertise and lived
experience directly to participants, enriching the learning
environment.
Upon successful
completion of training participants will receive Restorative
Yoga for Cancer Certification through PinkHippy.org.
Registered Yoga Teachers (RYT) and others who are eligible
may use this certification for *11 hours of continuing
education credits.
____________________________________________________
If you are interested in training please reach out
to us
at
info@pinkhippy.org or call us
at 508-304-3463
Our next training date is
Sunday April 26, 2026
