Sleep is a struggle for cancer patients. According to the National Cancer Institute, more than half of all cancer patients experience poor sleep during treatment and recovery. But a new study from the University of Texas found that breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy who also practiced yoga just twice a week saw significant improvements in both the quality and quantity of their sleep.
“Previous studies have found that yoga reduces sleep disturbances in cancer patients, but they lacked active control groups and follow-up. This study aims to fill these gaps,” said the study’s lead author, Dr. Lorenzo Cohen, professor of palliative, rehabilitation, and integrative medicine and director of the integrative medicine program.
The Importance of Sleep in Cancer Treatment
A couple of nights without sleep isn’t good for anyone, especially those undergoing cancer treatment. Sleep deprivation is directly linked to decreased activity of NK cells (natural killer cells, which are cytotoxic against tumor cells), which play a key role in our immune system.
Yoga Practices relaxes and calms our body, thereby facilitating the process of falling asleep and promoting deeper sleep. Yoga nidra and toning yoga are particularly effective for this purpose.
Other methods for promoting healthy sleep are also suggested. We often sit at the computer until bedtime, which, of course, interferes with a restful sleep. It’s important to put away your electronic devices an hour before bed and prepare yourself in a certain way, such as taking a soothing bath, doing stretching, or yoga Exercises. Taking daytime walks and sunbathing is also helpful; this will help you fall asleep at night.
But what can cancer patients actually do to improve the quality of their sleep? Science is one thing, but life is quite another. So how can cancer patients actually help their bodies sleep?
Many cancer survivors recommend yoga. They say it can restore the connection between body and mind, which is often disrupted during treatment. Breathing exercises, gentle movements, and meditation—always a calming, relaxing type—help find this missing link. By abandoning asanas but choosing mindfulness exercises, practicing pranayama, and recording their observations in a personal journal, many report easier sleep and improved sleep quality.
Another wonderful way is to combine time outdoors with yoga practice. However, some note that asanas are difficult for patients in the early stages of recovery from an illness, and they can even cause physical pain. Therefore, the first thing you should do before starting yoga is to consult with your doctor to determine whether it’s safe for you to begin practicing yoga. If so, let your yoga teacher know that you’re recovering from an illness. Then, don’t chase specific results, listen to your body, and try to absorb all the love and positivity that yoga brings.
Last Update: January 15, 2026
#About Author#
Written by Dr. Ashish Sharma, MBBS.MBBS graduate (Karaganda Medical University) and FMGE-qualified physician with completed internship at Rajeev Gandhi Government General Hospital, Alwar.
Disclaimer: This article is intended for general educational and awareness purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for medical concerns.