BFMC Oncology Department Offers Gentle Yoga for Cancer Survivors

GREENFIELD — Baystate Franklin Medical Center’s Oncology Department will present a free eight-week yoga class, Gentle Yoga for Cancer Survivors, at the YMCA of Greenfield. The classes will take place on Wednesdays, Sept. 2 to Oct. 21, from noon to 1:30 p.m.

The course facilitator is Pam Roberts, a 20-year breast-cancer survivor and a certified Kripalu yoga teacher. Roberts is also a certified Yoga of the Heart for Cardiac and Cancer Patients instructor.

The weekly gentle yoga classes for individuals who have been living with a cancer diagnosis consist of stretching, strengthening, and breathing and deep relaxation exercises.

One participany called the clas “the best thing that has helped me after breast cancer.” Another commented that the class was “beneficial to my body, mind, and spirit.” Participants have found that the class helps with strengthening muscles and promoting relaxation.

The free yoga program has been made possible by Baystate Franklin Medical Center’s Oncology Department and the YMCA in Greenfield. It is funded by BFMC’s annual Wheeling for Healing Bike Event, which supports oncology patients, programs, and services at Baystate Franklin.

For more information or to register, contact Pam Roberts at (413) 625-2402 or pamro@aol.com.