A gentle form of yoga helps those with lymphoma sleep better.

A study found that among 39 patients being treated for lymphoma, those who participated in only seven weekly sessions of yoga said they got to sleep sooner, slept for longer, and needed fewer drugs to fall asleep.

Study author Dr Lorenzo Cohen, of the M. D. Anderson Cancer Centre in Houston, Texas, explained that living with cancer can be a very stressful experience, as patients cope with a diagnosis of a life-threatening illness and the side effects of treatment.

“In 2012, when I was 48, I was diagnosed with CLL (chronic lymphocytic leukaemia). I’d always looked after myself, exercised and ate well, but I lost confidence in my body,” says senior manager Paula.

“At times of infection or stress my lymph nodes in my neck, armpits and groin swell to the size of a golf ball and sometimes are very painful.

“Observing this, my focus is keeping well. I am fortunate to have the option to do a yoga class in my lunch hour and a boss who encourages me to go.

“I feel more focused, energised, happier and even though I have been told only chemo can control the progression of the disease, my nodes appear to be under control and my overall health and wellbeing is good.

“I don’t walk around with a veil of sadness, I feel strong, happy and in control.”