A Jasper resident is attempting to set up free yoga classes for cancer survivors as part of a University of Calgary study.

Alana Jessen has been a certified yoga instructor for a year and a half, and is currently looking for a space in which to host the classes. Inspired by her mother’s battle with breast cancer, Jessen said she’s been looking for an opportunity to run such a class in Jasper for the summer.

“When my mom was undergoing chemotherapy,  she brought home a flyer with some information about a yoga program. I found out about this training, and was doing some research about this. It’s been interesting and eye-opening,” Jessen said.

The programs are being taught in several rural areas, and participants are required to fill out surveys about how they feel during the classes. That information will be sent back to Calgary for inclusion in the study.

“They want to make it very inclusive. It’s a very gentle program,” Jessen said. 

The program, entitled Yoga Thrive, received its start in the University of Calgary Faculty of Kinesiology by Dr. Nicole Culos-Reed. The program teaches participants about cancer, treatments and associated physical side effects.

Culos-Reed has studied the effects of exercise on cancer survivors for some time, and has commented on the various benefits

“People feel very disconnected from their bodies after treatment... almost like their bodies have betrayed them. They are also fearful of getting cancer again and in many cases they feel isolated. Yoga seems to help patients reconnect with their body, provides social contact and potentially similar physical benefits to any other fitness regimens,” she said.

“It’s gentle and more therapeutic. The movements target restrictions common with cancer patients,” Jessen said.

In order for the class to go ahead, Jessen needs six students and an open space. The information from the class will be used in the University of Calgary study, and the classes will be free of charge. Jessen said she has some interest just through word of mouth, but wants to get the class started as soon as possible.