Statistics show that most people experience breast concerns at some point in their lifetimes, and that the number of women that will discuss these concerns with their primary care giver, or to anyone, is quite low…it’s important to reflect on the why? here.
Perhaps because breasts don’t always receive healthy and therapeutic attention as an important consideration in an individuals overall care of their bodies. Breasts are often seen as a “taboo” topic, sexualized rather than respected, which gives many people a decreased sense of confidence in voicing any concerns they may have about their breasts.
I want to very gently remind you that your breasts matter, that you matter; every inch of your body matters and is deserving of care and attention.
Breasts are an incredibly important part of female anatomy. They feed and nurture life for our infants, and hold the energy of nourishment for all of our creations, our breasts are intimately connected to our heart and our lungs, they have an extensive role in our lymphatic system and individualize our beautiful feminine bodies.
I love Sat Dharam Kaur’s analogy of our breasts being like a tree of life within our bodies. The specific anatomical components are reminisent of a beautiful tree, and their purpose is to nuture life, as well to hold compassionate space for ourselves, our creativity, and for others.
Our breasts have a simple anatomical design and quite straightforward needs; however they are much too often neglected in the overall care of our bodies which can create pain, discomfort, lowered self-confidence and sometimes hold fear or anger.
Breasts don’t have muscles to facilitate movement; therefore they require aid to support ongoing circulation and to prevent dis-ease. I’ve been working with individuals for almost 20 years now, exploring their breast health and whole body wellness through massage and yoga. In response to this work and a call for support, I started holding breast health workshops in 2007. It has been an honour holding this space and continueing my own learning along the way. I’ve witnessed various changes throughout a persons lifespan which directly and indirectly affects our breast health;
- The menstrual cycle
- The natural process of aging and associated changes
- Menopause
- Pregnancy (both during and after)
- Breastfeeding
- Dietary changes
- Emotional stress and trauma
- Environmental stressors
- Surgeries, diagnostic procedures
- Physical trauma
- Benign and malignant conditions
What can you do for yourself? There are so many simple yet powerful ways you can help to support yourself in the care of your whole body. It might be a good consideration for you to educate yourself around:
- Self-massage
- Drainage techniques
- Oils to support your breast tissue
- Contrast showers and dry brushing
- Dietary support for your body
- Yoga and stretching specifically for your breasts.
Your breasts are a part of your body, a life nourishing part, that are as deserving of care as every other part of you; it’s never too early or too late to establish healthy breast practices.
Written with love by Amber Young
Join me later this spring, in April, for a powerful 6 week exploration into your breast health, and your whole body wellness. Dates and details to be announced
I look forward to this journey with you…..
What can you expect?
- We’ll be discussing the connections between your breast health and your whole body
- Learn and practice yoga and stretching specifically for your hormone and breast health
- Learn self breast massage and other self care techniques you can put into practice immediatlely
- Learn more about your lymphatic system and how you can optimize the ways it supports you
- Discuss the emotional aspects of this sacred part of our body
- Connect with community in a safe way
- Weekly check in/practice sessions (either in person and/or zoom – TBA closer to the date)
- Recieve practice videos, worksheets, and handouts as we move through the weeks
- Ongoing support
Who am I? I’m a Registered Massage Therapist, Healthy Breast Program Facilitator (in training), Registered Yoga Teacher and mother of 2, with a diverse background in breast health, hospice work, cancer support, stress management and relaxation techniques.
I’ve spoken for organizations such as Rethink Cancer: Live, Laugh, Learn in Ottawa, Wellspring Cancer Support Center in Toronto, Breast Education seminars for RMT’s, Annual Perth Women’s Health Conference in support of Interval House, as well as for various clinics in Toronto and in the Ottawa Valley area. My focus in clinical practice is on breast health, cancer support, cranialsacral therapy and mindbody wellness – integrating your whole self wellness into your care.
If you have any questions or concerns that you think I may be able to help you with, or if you’d like to find out more about this spring offering, send me a direct email at amber@suryadaya.ca
Thanks for reading!