The power of exercise and wellbeing during and after cancer treatment
Exercise might not be the first thing you think about after a cancer diagnosis, but staying active can bring real, meaningful benefits, physically and emotionally. Whether it’s a lovely walk, gentle yoga or moving to your favourite tunes, movement can support you through every stage of treatment and recovery.
Physically, regular activity helps to combat fatigue, improve circulation and maintain strength and flexibility, which are often affected by treatments like chemotherapy or hormone therapy. Even light exercise can boost energy levels and support your immune system, helping your body cope better with treatment and recover more smoothly.
Longer term, keeping active supports your heart health, weight management and may even reduce the risk of cancer recurrence in some cases. Exercise is a gentle, empowering way to rebuild strength, confidence, and hope on your cancer journey. Read more about the health benefits of exercise on the NHS website.
It’s not just your physical wellbeing, but also your emotional wellbeing that you should take care of. Counselling is a confidential space to unpack the feelings and emotions that might be hard to share with family and friends. Our trained counsellors can help you come to terms with your reactions to cancer, with family and relationship issues, to explore personal challenges and to deal with practical matters.
Taking care of your body and mind can help to lift mood, reduce anxiety and improve overall wellbeing. It can also give you a sense of control and routine at a time when life feels uncertain.
Please note that not every type of activity is offered in all our centres, and some are available online, so please visit our cancer support centres if you’d just like to explore what’s near you.
Explore our exercise and wellbeing services
Explore our cancer support centres
Donate to support local
wellbeing and exercise services
Your support means local cancer support services, including wellbeing and exercise sessions , are available to help your community; providing free, personalised wellbeing support to people affected by cancer. £10 could help to fund essential aromatherapy oils, £40 could help pay for a support session, and £130 could help fund a centre for a day.
Our cancer support services are 100% generously funded by the donations we receive. Every penny you donate makes a huge difference. From everyone at Wessex Cancer Support, thank you.