Introduction

At just 25, Nikita Wadhwani faced an unimaginable challenge with her breast cancer diagnosis, only two years after the heartbreaking loss of her mother to the same disease. Though she bravely fought through chemotherapy and underwent a mastectomy followed by reconstruction, she found herself in remission for four hopeful years. Unfortunately, a routine scan revealed that cancer had returned, this time invading her lungs, leading Wadhwani back to chemotherapy.

Reclaiming Identity through Wellness

Now, at age 35, Wadhwani reflects on her journey and acknowledges the long road to reclaiming her identity. She credits a variety of wellness therapies and practices that played a crucial role in her healing. These include craniosacral therapy, diamond painting, yoga, and consultations with a life coach.

Support Networks and Emotional Healing

“After my second diagnosis, when I learned the cancer had spread, I felt mentally shattered,” Wadhwani shared. “But with my support network—my craniosacral therapist, life coach, and family—I found a safe space to navigate my emotions and my journey.”

The Role of Craniosacral Therapy

Craniosacral therapy, a gentle treatment that works mainly on the head and spine, proved to be a pillar of support for Wadhwani and many other breast cancer patients. One such advocate is Jill Alphonso, 45, who underwent a left breast mastectomy in early 2023 and became the first woman in Singapore to share her scar on social media. Through her actions, she's championing open discussions on breast health, wellness, and body positivity.

Yogic Healing and Empowerment

With over 20 years of experience as a yoga practitioner and an 11-year teaching history, Alphonso returned to yoga mere weeks after her surgery. “Not only did it enhance my mobility—my doctor called it remarkable—but it also fostered my acceptance of my post-mastectomy body, significantly boosting my confidence,” she explained. Now, she teaches yoga specifically to cancer patients and survivors, fostering a sense of empowerment.

Holistic Wellness Programs

Alphonso has sought holistic wellness support in Malaysia through programs such as the Cancer Battle, which offers therapies including hyperthermia, detoxifying enemas, and lymphatic massages. Craniosacral therapy has been a continuous source of comfort for her, alleviating discomfort related to scar tissue long after surgery.

Emotional Expression and Restorative Practices

“Part of craniosacral therapy involves expressing emotions, which, coupled with the manual work, creates a deeply peaceful and restorative experience,” she emphasized.

Exploration of Non-Physical Therapies

Furthermore, Alphonso has explored hypnotherapy, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, and contrast therapy, investing substantially—around S$4,000—in a cold plunge system for her home. She uses it between three to five times weekly, illustrating her commitment to non-physical therapies that address the significant stresses associated with her diagnosis.

The Importance of Mental and Emotional Wellness

According to Alphonso, mental and emotional wellness is vital in the realms of illness and healing. “The energy from sound therapy assists my clients in feeling re-energized, especially when they face days of low spirits,” she noted.

Community Support and Body Positivity

Kathy Gabriel, co-founder of Soma Haus, understands the importance of emotional support, having lost both her mother and co-founder to cancer. Her multidisciplinary clinic runs the #FeelYourLemons Breast Cancer Awareness campaign focusing on self-care and body positivity, emphasizing that wellness transcends mere medical treatment.

Favorite Therapeutic Services

Among the favorite therapeutic services at Soma Haus are craniosacral therapy and remedial massages, which allow patients to disconnect from the mental turmoil typically associated with cancer treatment while managing symptoms and pain effectively.

Regulating Emotions through Wellness Therapies

Gabriel recognizes that fear of recurrence can manifest strong emotions within patients, particularly as they approach the five-year survival mark. “Wellness therapies not only help regulate one’s nervous system but also encourage a reframing of thoughts—a trusting of the healing process,” she explained.

Embracing Curiosity in Healing

For anyone considering wellness therapies, Gabriel advises embracing the experience with curiosity and openness. “Your body has gone through so much, and these therapies can act as a powerful bridge back to your healing journey,” she stated.

Upcoming Healing Event

As part of a larger initiative, Alphonso and Gabriel are co-organizing an event titled Healing in Crisis & Beyond on October 13, 2024, to coincide with Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This event will be free for cancer survivors and will emphasize holistic wellness.

Conclusion

“Engaging with alternative therapies can lead to astonishing insights and healing,” Alphonso concluded. “When approached with curiosity, these experiences have the potential to be deeply rewarding.” The Healing in Crisis & Beyond event aims to create an empowering space for breast cancer survivors and their supporters as they embark on their journeys of recovery. Whether through yoga, sound therapy, or simply connecting with others who share their experiences, the path to healing is a personal and often transformative endeavor.