Cancer is no longer a rare disease. The World Health Organization’s research indicates that roughly one out of every three people will develop some form of cancer during their lifetime. There are known and unknown reasons for the high incidence of cancer, but one cannot ignore modern-day lifestyle as a contributing factor to the increased rate. A report from the World Cancer Research Fund International estimates that 40% of cancer cases can be prevented through diet, avoiding toxins, and engaging in appropriate physical activities. Mental and emotional imbalances, as well as misunderstood or unhealthy family habits and traditions, may also be triggering reasons for cancer and cannot be ignored. However, healthy lifestyle choices could prevent its manifestation. Even those with no family history of cancer cannot be complacent, because overexposure to pollutants and toxins, continued consumption of processed foods, past traumas, stress, and a sedentary lifestyle can increase the chances of cancer. In many respects, cancer is a lifestyle disease. Unless we take ownership of this fact and change our lifestyle, the cancer epidemic cannot be controlled.
Western medicine treats cancer through invasive treatments such as surgical removal and/or therapies targeting cancer cells, often leaving patients to suffer negative side effects. In many cases, these treatments are effective if the disease is caught in its early stages. Many precious years of life can be added due to these treatments, but they do not address the root cause of the disease, and chances of recurrence exist. This is not to downplay the effectiveness of medical treatments, but one must understand that treating the symptoms of disease is not a long-term solution to sustaining health. Research indicates that causes of cancer include hormonal changes, environmental toxins, side effects of drugs, alcohol, stress, obesity, and others. All point toward poor lifestyle choices being harmful to our health. What each of us can do right now is to take ownership of our own well-being and choose to create a healing body so that external medical interventions are effective, future diseases are prevented, and optimal health is maintained to live a fulfilling life. We tend to seek external help for healing, but we need to look inward and change our ways to restore health.
Most of us are under the illusion that we are apart from nature and not part of it. How we treat the environment and create our society directly correlates with the state of our well-being, because humanity is an integral part of nature. We like to blame polluted environments, social pressures, and temptations as causes of our illnesses, but in fact, they are all our own creations. What is not good for nature is not good for humanity. It is that simple. How we choose to exist affects the whole universe and vice versa. Therefore, the cancer epidemic must be treated holistically as well. We need to make choices that are good for the individual as well as for our environment.
Yoga offers a holistic approach to living that is practical, adaptable, and scientific, allowing us to evolve as healthy human beings. The ancient wisdom of Yoga, as documented in Sage Patanjali’s Yoga Sutra, outlines step-by-step guidelines on how to live a healthy life. It is still relevant today. By following the eight principles of Yoga (Ashtanga Yoga / eight limbs of Yoga), we can prevent and manage physical illnesses while respecting and rejuvenating our environment. Most people misunderstand Yoga as merely physical exercise, but physical postures (asana) are only one of the eight practices of Yoga. Practicing Yoga integrally initiates deep relaxation in the body and mind, thus promoting healing. Some cancer patients may not be able to practice postures due to their condition, but by following other aspects of Yoga, they can still benefit from its healing qualities.
8 Steps of Yoga for Healing
The following are the eight steps toward living a holistic life to promote healing:
1. Social / Ethical Codes of Conduct (Yama)
There are five codes of conduct to ensure a harmonious relationship with society and the environment. As we are part of nature and humanity, working for the greater good results in positive outcomes for the individual. This reduces conflict, stress, and anxiety and creates a healthier environment.
a) Truthfulness (Satya): Making a conscious effort to speak the truth promotes harmony and balance between the body, mind, and emotions, resulting in confidence and relaxation. Lying causes anxiety and fear of being exposed, which is toxic to the body and creates distrust and social disharmony.
b) Non-violence (Ahimsa): This code is not limited to physical violence but also includes our words, thoughts, and actions. Any action, including speech, triggered by anger or fear results in disharmony and tension within society and within ourselves. Non-violence can also be applied to diet by choosing organic, plant-based foods that promote health.
c) Non-stealing (Asteya): Stealing creates distrust within society and disturbs the mental peace of the individual. It is motivated by greed and jealousy, both negative emotions. Maintaining a clear conscience leads to mental peace and relaxation. Honesty keeps us calm and peaceful.
d) Non-possessiveness (Aparigraha): When possessiveness, greed, and attachment dictate our actions and thoughts, we lose sight of the greater good. Restlessness and dissatisfaction fester within us, fostering more cravings that lead to addictions and unhealthy lifestyles. Relationships become strained, and natural resources are plundered, causing harm.
e) Discipline and Balanced Action (Brahmacharya): When sensual desires dictate our actions, self-control is lost. This causes disharmony and weakens our energy, preventing it from being used productively. Addictions to food, alcohol, drugs, gambling, and sex can be avoided through self-discipline. Discipline is necessary in all aspects of life to remain productive members of society.
Following these social codes creates harmony with society, allows us to remain peaceful externally, and conserves energy to improve health and well-being. We connect more easily with others and nature, creating social well-being.
2. Personal Codes of Conduct (Niyama)
These five additional codes help us take responsibility for our personal behavior and well-being. It is not the responsibility of others to manage the health of our body, mind, and emotions. Taking ownership of our health is the foundation of Yoga.
a) Cleanliness / Purity (Saucha): This code is not limited to personal hygiene. Thoughts, words, and food all impact physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Cleanliness fosters physical health and a positive outlook on life.
b) Contentment (Santosha): Contentment is accepting reality as it is. Comparing ourselves to others leads to jealousy, greed, and anger, whereas acceptance allows us to focus energy productively. False contentment—suppressing emotions—can lead to disease. Contentment must be cultivated, not forced.
c) Austerity (Tapas): Discipline in Yoga is not self-punishing effort. It means regularity, consistency, and dedication with awareness and sincerity. Discipline is nurtured, not forced, making it sustainable.
d) Self-study (Svadhyaya): Knowing oneself is crucial for health. Obsessive thoughts, emotional attachment, and negative behaviors deplete energy. Self-awareness helps conserve energy, detect ailments early, and foster healing.
e) Surrender to the Divine (Ishvarapranidhana): This practice builds trust and faith in the greater good, reduces ego-driven stress, and gives confidence to face uncertainty.
Both social and personal codes cultivate the mindset necessary for healing and fulfillment. Beginners should focus on one code at a time. For example, practicing truthfulness (Satya) encourages awareness and naturally incorporates self-study (Svadhyaya). All ten codes are interrelated, and healing begins internally.
3. Physical Postures (Asana)
Asana practice begins after cultivating the correct mindset. These meditative movements are performed with awareness to conserve and recharge energy, creating balance in body and mind. Regular practice improves circulation, strengthens organs, supports recovery, and enhances immunity. Difficulty is not the measure of effectiveness—awareness and attitude are key.
4. Breathing Techniques (Pranayama)
Pranayama promotes slow, smooth, rhythmic breathing, essential for longevity and healing. It balances the nervous system, improves oxygen supply, supports immunity, and induces deep relaxation. Even bedridden patients can benefit from simple breathing practices.
5. Withdrawal of the Senses (Pratyahara)
Pratyahara trains the mind to disconnect from sensory overload, allowing deep relaxation and healing at the subconscious level. Yoga Nidra is a powerful practice for pain management, emotional release, and rejuvenation.
6. One-Pointed Concentration (Dharana)
Focused attention conserves energy, reduces stress, and builds willpower. A disciplined mind naturally supports healing and healthy choices.
7. Meditation (Dhyana)
Meditation anchors awareness in the present moment, reducing stress and anxiety. Research shows benefits for pain management, emotional stability, and healing. It cultivates inner peace, gratitude, and emotional purification.
8. State of Higher Union (Samadhi)
Samadhi is the ultimate goal of Yoga, where awareness is unified with the present moment. Self-doubt dissolves, clarity arises, and harmonious living becomes natural.
By taking charge of our health as individuals and as a society, we can reduce illness through a holistic Yogic lifestyle. Combined with a healthful diet and appropriate medical care, Yoga empowers healing, prevention, and rehabilitation. Healing begins internally, and Yoga teaches us how to care for and love ourselves. External help supports healing, but true healing always comes from within.
By following these eight steps of Yoga, we can create a healthier society and environment, living peacefully with love. Yoga is a practical and experiential science of health and well-being.
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