Workshops to prepare women to undergo surgery, radiation
and/or chemotherapy
Based on the work of psychologist Peggy Huddleston, a pioneer in mind-body medicine. Designed to help patients feel profoundly peaceful before treatment and create the biochemistry of healing to speed recovery, this workshop is best experienced a few days to a week or so before undergoing treatment, and includes a book and relaxation audiotape for use at home. Consultations are available to individuals and small groups by appointment.

Therapeutic dance and movement classes
Based on The Lebed Method© Focus on Healing through Movement and Dance.  This program of gentle, therapeutic exercises is designed to help persons who have had any kind of breast surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation, and those experiencing lymphedema or fatigue as the result of treatments. It incorporates deep breathing techniques, gentle stretching for flexibility and range of motion, and strengthening exercises, all performed slowly and smoothly to uplifting music. No special abilities or coordination are needed, and the movements can be done sitting or standing. Certified Lebed Method Instructor Diane Levesque-Kopecki conducts the program.

Healing with creative visualization and guided imagery
A support group in workshop format that focuses on the use of creative visualization, guided imagery, dreams and personal imagery to access the inner strength and stamina that are helpful in the healing journey. Participants learn to use the rich tapestry of creative visualizations, dreams and personal images for healing and for connecting with the deeper story of their lives. Survivors and caregivers will discover their own abilities to listen to their bodies and mine their dreams or personal images for healing symbols. Call for the dates of the next upcoming series.

Restorative yoga and meditation
The practice of varied calming breath techniques to help promote lymph flow, gentle stretching moves and postures to enhance range of motion and flexibility, and total body relaxation and life-affirming meditation to aid the natural self-healing process.

Pilates
Pilates is a body-conditioning technique designed to stretch, strengthen and balance the body.  Pilates targets the deep postural muscles within the body through a series of exercises aimed at building muscle strength and rebalancing the body.  Excellent for improving posture, strength and flexibility and aligning the body correctly. Pilates also teaches coordination, concentration and control of the body.

Life Coaching
The group will focus on helping breast cancer survivors as they transition out of active intense medical treatment.  Life Coaching focuses on people taking action toward the realization of their visions, goals or desires.  The experience may be used as a catalyst for personal growth and positive lifestyle changes that enable a woman to live life more fully.

For more information about any of these free services, please call CRAAB! at 435-1055.