Written by Melanie Bowen – Guest Writer for Cure Endometriosis
People who are struggling with chronic or terminal illnesses often find it difficult to find the time or energy to exercise, but studies have shown that it may be one of the most beneficial things they can do on their own. People who are afflicted with different types of cancers like mesothelioma, breast cancer, or even more specific chronic illnesses that affect quality of life, including Endometriosis. Use exercise as tool to recover and promote both physical and psychological healing after traditional treatments and medication. Exercise is especially beneficial to cancer patients because the treatments are very hard on the body, so the body must recuperate from both the disease and the treatment at the same time. People who are also dealing with other types of problems like diabetes, stroke and high blood pressure can also benefit from exercise as well. Although many patients feel exhausted and depressed, it is definitely worth their time to create a very simple routine that they can perform 3-4 times a week just to get started. The key is not to do anything that is too vigorous or anything against the doctor’s orders, but to just have a basic workout that keeps the body moving. Patients should try to supplement their treatments with a few workouts that they can complete at home independently.
Here are some of the benefits of exercise for patients:
- Boosts self-confidence
People that exercise tends to have a higher level of self-confidence and studies have also shown that exercises can promote feelings of joy and fulfillment.
- Improves sleeping habits
Many people report that they are able to sleep easier after they have engaged in an exercise program. This is especially helpful for patients that have difficulty sleeping on their own.
- Alleviates stress
One of the best benefits of exercise is that it is a proven stress reliever, which is great for patients who are dealing with a lot of pressure and anxiety due to their illness.
- Promotes muscle development and growth
Exercise helps build up the body through strength training or aerobic exercise, which will help muscles grow and develop all over the body. This will help people control their weight better, especially if they are dealing with diabetes or high blood pressure.
- Boosts energy
Although many people think exercise is exhausting; it actually gives the body more energy. Some cancer patients may feel very lethargic after their treatments, so exercise may help them get more strength and energy.
- Boosts immune system
Exercise has shown to improve the immune system over time, which will help the body fight off diseases and infections.
Exercise has a number of physical and mental benefits that can help people recover from serious illnesses in addition to their regular treatments. Physical exercise is no way, shape, or form a cure for any of disease and patients should consult with the doctors before they begin to exercise to make sure that it is safe for them to do so.
Thank you Melanie for sharing your insights for how exercise helps our healing 
Author of Cure Endometriosis & Eating with Mel.
