I felt so isolated and alone. I was astounded when I called BCC, and within 24 hours had three perfectly matched buddies.

– Carol

Workshops

Throughout the year, Breast Cancer Connections offers a variety of workshops. Whether you’re looking for introspective techniques or practical advice, join us for these free sessions. Friends and family members of BCC clients are also welcome to attend most of our workshops. Call the BCC Helpline for more information on the workshops that interest you.

Workshops

Writing through cancer:  a writing workshop for breast cancer survivors

Second Wednesday
6:45 – 8:45 p.m

Writing together through breast cancer can help us make sense of our experiences, and a growing body of research confirms that expressing our thoughts and feelings through the written word may even help us heal. Whether you are new to writing or have written all your life, join us for this special, creative monthly gathering.

Write with us in a safe and supportive setting.  We will explore the impact of cancer on our lives, expressing our unique voices as we honor what emerges on our journeys.  Participants will receive prompts to write on, a period to write, and an opportunity to read and receive positive feedback on their writing. This is not a critique group.  No prior writing experience necessary.  Led by Ali Zidel-Meyers, MSW.

Call the Helpline at (650) 326-6686 to RSVP.  You may attend any or all sessions.

 

Mindfulness meditation

First Tuesday
6:00 – 7:00 p.m.

The essence of a mindfulness practice is to live more fully in the moment with awareness of body, breath, emotions, and thoughts without judgment.  Mindfulness meditation is a tool to help us respond rather than react to our circumstances.  The practices taught in this class help deal with anxiety, pain, relaxation, boost the immune system, normalize sleep, and deepen the joy of living.  Led by Cheryl Branco, R.N.

Each session will address the basics of mindfulness, Delve into one topic for application of mindfulness in your life with suggestions for informal practices.  Experience a guided mindfulness meditation.  No meditation experience required yet these will be of benefit if you have a sitting practice.

Topics
January – Mindfulness and Healthy Pleasures
February – Mindfulness and the Body
March – Breathing Techniques in Mindfulness
April – Working with the Busy Mind
May – Mindfulness and Breast Cancer
June – Loving-Kindness Practice

 

Healthy steps

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.

 

Healing and guided imagery

First, third, and occasional fifth 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.

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