Massa, Italy – A different kind of quiet fills the Sala della Musica at the Apuane Hospital these days. It’s a stillness built of slow breaths and measured movements, the foundation of “Yoga in Oncology,” a new program aiming to reshape the experience of living with cancer by integrating traditional medical care with a practice designed to ease the emotional burden on patients. The initiative, launched through a collaboration between the hospital’s Oncology department and the association ‘Una mano per l’oncologia’ (A Hand for Oncology), isn’t simply an add-on, but a core component of the therapeutic process, empowering patients to actively participate in their own care.
The benefits of reducing stress during cancer treatment are increasingly well-documented, with research suggesting it can improve treatment efficacy and overall quality of life. The National Cancer Institute highlights the importance of managing stress for cancer patients, noting its impact on immune function and emotional well-being. “Yoga fits into that same vision,” explains Giuliano Biselli, director of the Apuane Hospital. “It offers a space where patients can rediscover balance and strength.” Andrea Mambrini, director of Oncology and president of ‘Una mano per l’oncologia,’ emphasizes the need for interventions that improve quality of life alongside chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapies. “Integrated therapies increase adherence to treatments and help people live better during this period, making them perceive part of a group, not alone in facing the illness.”
The program’s approach recently garnered recognition at a conference in Bologna, where it was presented as one of the most advanced models in integrating care and patient support. Maurizio Lucchesi, the hospital’s vice director, explained that the goal is to build a structured system capable of identifying patient needs and directing them to targeted services. The yoga component is coupled with scientific monitoring, using validated questionnaires to assess its impact on quality of life, stress management, and tolerance to therapies over time. “Every proposal has a solid basis,” says Sara Mussi of ‘Una mano per l’oncologia.’
Breathing as a Bridge to Well-being
At the heart of the project is the practice itself, guided by yoga instructor Silvia Tagliagambe. “The breath is a bridge between the body and the mind,” Tagliagambe explains. “We don’t request the mind to calm down, but rather accompany it through movement and breathing. If the body finds harmony, the mind naturally follows.” The classes, held in small groups, prioritize individualized attention and adaptation to each participant’s condition, aiming to improve daily activities as well.
The impact of the program extends beyond measurable data, resonating in the experiences of the patients themselves. Manuela Colombini, a participant in the program, shared how yoga helped her regain control over her breathing, which had become labored and frightening during her illness. “When I got sick, my breath became short, almost an enemy,” she recounts. “I lived with a constant feeling of shortness of breath and fatigue. With yoga, I learned to manage it. Now I can stop, listen to myself, and not be overwhelmed by anxiety. Even in the most demanding moments, I feel like I have an extra tool. I was skeptical at first, but now it’s become a fixed point in my week.”
A Holistic Approach to Cancer Care
Giuseppe Pagano, another patient, echoes this sentiment. “You realize that the body can still do a lot, even when you think the opposite. Breathing and movement help you cope with the fear and fatigue of therapies. It’s not just physical exercise; it’s awareness. It helps you live better through every stage, before, during, and after treatment. Experiences like this should be everywhere.”
The Apuane Hospital’s initiative reflects a growing trend in healthcare toward holistic approaches that address the emotional and psychological needs of patients alongside their physical ailments. Research published in the journal *Supportive Care in Cancer* demonstrates the potential benefits of yoga for cancer patients, including reduced anxiety, depression, and fatigue.
Expanding Support Services
Beyond the yoga program, ‘Una mano per l’oncologia’ is expanding its support services at the Apuane Hospital. Starting May 27, 2026, the association will offer a free legal clinic, staffed by attorney Alessandro Caleo, available on a monthly basis. This additional service aims to address the legal challenges often faced by cancer patients and their families.
This multi-faceted approach—combining physical practice, emotional support, and legal assistance—underscores a shift in healthcare philosophy, one that prioritizes the patient as a whole person. The Apuane Hospital’s model demonstrates a commitment to listening to patients, integrating scientific evidence, and finding in the simplest of gestures—like a conscious breath—a key to restoring dignity, strength, and hope in the face of illness. The hospital plans to continue monitoring the program’s impact and expanding its reach to more patients in the coming months.
Disclaimer: This article provides information for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. It is essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
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