Unlike most of the appointments associated with dealing with a cancer diagnosis, the weekly Relaxation Circle sessions are welcomed.
"It's an appointment on my calendar that I look forward to," says Jane Dixon, who started attending the sessions at the Delta Hospice Centre for Supportive Care about a year ago.
"I think the fact that it's not a trip to the doctor's office or for treatment... It's part of the healing process instead of part of the cure."
Dixon says the sessions, guided by Gilly Heaps, a clinical counselor at the
hospice, have helped her become more aware of being in the moment. She says she's also made great connections with other participants.
The weekly Relaxation Circle sessions are designed to help people living with a life-threatening illness, such as cancer, relax in the face of what can be an extremely stressful situation.
Heaps uses music, with help from a music therapist, guided imagery and optional therapeutic touch to help participants relax.
"It's the most wonderful thing," says Jane Wheeler.
"When we come here, we do nurture ourselves."
Kate Quenville heard about the concept from the B.C. Cancer Agency about a year ago. She was going through
chemotherapy treatments at the time and was game to try anything and everything to feel better.
"I honestly don't think I really knew what it was going to be about," she says, adding the sessions have helped her in many ways.
And while there is no obligation for participants to reveal details of their situations, many end up sharing their stories before and after the sessions.
"It's been very much a support group," Quenville says. "I've loved meeting all the people."
"It's just about taking care of yourself," Dixon adds.
The sessions are designed for people facing treatments, a recent diagnosis or end of life, and can help patients with strategies for handling difficult situations as well as calming the nervous system.
The Relaxation Circle runs every Tuesday at the Delta Hospice Centre for Supportive Care in Ladner from 10:30 a.m. until noon.
