Many doctors now encourage people with lymphoma and other cancers to be as active as possible during treatment and recovery. Some gentle exercises you may want to try include walking, stretching, yoga or tai chi. Being active may:
- Reduce stress and improve your mood
- Boost your energy
- Stimulate your appetite
- Reduce side effects like nausea, fatigue and constipation
- Help you sleep
- Help you regain your strength during recovery.
You will need to check with your doctor before starting any exercise program. This is true even if you exercised regularly before being diagnosed. After your doctor has given the okay, you might also meet with a physical therapist or another healthcare professional with experience in this area. They can help you develop an exercise program that is safe, effective and fun for you.
Although exercise is safe for many people there are some exceptions. For example, if you are at risk for infection or anemia you may not be able to exercise. This is why consulting your doctor is an important first step.
There may be times when you do not feel able to exercise. The goal is to be as active as you comfortably can be. Try exercising when you have the most energy. Even a few minutes of gentle stretching can help you feel better.