Complementary therapies

At Breast Cancer Connections, we offer programs and workshops that can help in your healing process as an adjunct to your medical treatment. If you are interested in exploring other ways to reinvigorate your mind, body, and spirit, see our calendar or call the BCC Helpline for exact dates and locations.

We also invite you to visit our Workshops page, which has information about upcoming workshops and presentations.

 

Group life coaching

Second Saturday of the month, 1:00-2:00 p.m.

These workshops are ideal if you are new to coaching or have completed Individual Life Coaching sessions. They will give you the opportunity to focus on a core issue or exercise each month, such as learning how you create ‘structures of knowing’ or self-limiting beliefs that stand in the way of your own success; how to make subtle shifts in your thoughts and behaviors to move forward; learning to identify your core intentions and live your life based on those intentions; and how to take control – if only briefly – over your thoughts and emotions to make changes in your lives.  Possible topics or exercises include, “Take It or Leave It:  Determining What to Keep and What to Release from your Life;” “Making Great Decisions Based on Your Intentions;” “Identifying Your Standards of Integrity;” or “Making Successful Transitions.”

Workshops are facilitated by breast cancer survivor and Certified Life Coach Joanne Sperans, MBA, ACC.

 

Healing and guided imagery

First and third Wednesdays, 5:30-7:00 p.m.

In these popular sessions, medical hypnotherapist Mary Horngren, CMHt, guides you through deep relaxation techniques for mind and body, helping you to tap into your own healing powers and lower your stress level. Mary’s calming voice leads you to a quiet place within, fostering meditation and facilitating healing. Audio recordings of each session are available for checkout in our library. For more information, visit Mary’s website at www.maryhorngren.com.

 

Healthy Steps exercise class

Fridays, 8:30-9:30 a.m.

Research shows that exercise is one of the best therapies for those undergoing cancer treatment or to help prevent recurrence.  Exercise to upbeat music with the group and Susie Danzig, Healthy Steps instructor.  Move at a pace that suits you.  Bring a friend, too!

Healthy Steps employs movements using the entire body:

• Every session begins with warm-up exercises to open up the lymphatic system.
• Movements support immune system function, reduce scar restriction, and improve range of motion.
• Designed to stabilize weight, and improve balance and posture.

Call the Helpline at (650) 326-6686 to register.

 

Individual life coaching

Second Saturday of the month, 2:00-4:00 p.m. (30-minute sessions)
Or by phone appointment

Breast cancer doesn’t just disrupt your physical health. Perhaps you’ve realized that you’re taking care of everyone but yourself, or pretending that nothing has changed, or even feeling as though you’ve lost your very identity. With the support of a life coach who understands the breast cancer experience, you can learn to make subtle shifts that empower you and help you reclaim your authentic self. Through BCC, you can receive free introductory life coaching sessions with Joanne Sperans, MBA, ACC, cancer survivor, and proprietor of Volo Coaching.

By appointment only. Please RSVP to the BCC Helpline at (650) 326-6686.

 

Mindfulness Meditation

First Tuesday, 6:00-7:00 p.m.

Cheryl Branco, R.N. will teach you how to be fully present in the moment and focus attention on your immediate experience, to bring calmness and clarity to your life.

 

Pilates Matwork for Breast Cancer Rehabilitation

Fridays, 12:00-12:45 p.m.

This class focuses on postural alignment, flexibility, and core strengthening. Exercises and the flow of class are designed to address limitations specific to breast cancer-related surgeries and subsequent treatments. This class is appropriate for those who have undergone or are undergoing treatment with the clearance of their physician, and anyone who has breast cancer. Facilitated by Rachel Peters, PT, MS, OCS. Please bring a mat.

 

Reiki Energy Sessions

Second Sunday, 11:00 a.m-1:00 p.m. (30-minute appts)

Reiki is a complementary healing method to help you achieve complete wellness. Tune up your energy to its healthiest state with Reiki, a safe and gentle form of energy healing that alleviates physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual stress.

Trauma can cause energy blockages. Based on the Reiki philosophy, the body is better able to heal itself when
energy naturally flows through the body. A Reiki practitioner channels this universal life force energy by gently laying their hands on the blocked areas of the body, and facilitates the Reiki energy to flow and heal.

Call the Helpline  (650) 326-6686 to make you appointment.

 

Tai Chi

Fridays, 9:45-10:45 a.m.
Class cancelled May 24 and 31

Tai Chi is a martial art that has proven benefits for health, especially with regard to maintaining strength and balance. In this class we will focus on Tai Chi as a moving meditation, and you will learn Tai Chi movements especially designed for those who are currently undergoing or completing medical treatment for breast cancer.

 

Writing Through Cancer

Second Wednesday, 6:45-8:45 p.m.

Come write with us in a safe and supportive community. Explore the impact of cancer through the written word, expressing unique voices as we honor what emerges throughout our journeys. Facilitated by Ali Zidel Meyers, MSW.