What comes to mind when you think of the word transformational? Probably some kind of change of course, but what kind of change? For me, a transformational change is more than just a tweak here or there, something minor; a transformational change involves a dramatic shift or major re-haul. Breast cancer awareness and touting early detection have been main-stream for some time now. However, since the current statistic gives women a 1 in 8 chance of developing breast cancer over the course of their life, there needs to be a transformational—or dramatic shift—in our approach to breast health.

Transformational is also used to describe breast cancer events like Komen’s 3 Day for the Cure. There is something almost magical being among hundreds or thousands of others united in a common cause. Completing a journey of 60 miles for breast cancer is emotional and life-changing. Breast cancer awareness, knowing your risks and the signs/symptoms of breast cancer, is important. Early detection is also vital to increase the odds of your survival, but….

Shouldn’t the emphasis be on prevention?

The two greatest risk factors for breast cancer are gender and age: Women comprise the vast majority of breast cancer diagnoses and the risk increases with age. However, it is estimated that 50% of cancers could be prevented by opting for healthy lifestyle choices. That bears repeating: 50%, or half, of the number of cancer diagnoses would be eliminated simply by making better choices. When stated that way it’s really a no-brainer isn’t it?

In fact, the American Cancer Society links 1/3 of cancer deaths to tobacco; another 2/3 of deaths they attribute to body weight, diet and physical activity. If you had any lingering doubts, this should convince you to begin your transformation!

Focus on just two things—2 things you have control over—that will reduce your risk not only for breast cancer but other chronic diseases as well:

1. Quit smoking; avoid all tobacco products
2. Exercise daily

If you haven’t been active the exercise part can seem daunting. The good news is yoga can be your answer! Yoga is an ideal form of exercise as there’s a style for available for everyone regardless of fitness level or age. Transformational is a word also associated with yoga. Yoga’s ability to reacquaint our self to our (true, inner) Self can redirect the life-journey you thought you were travelling on to a completely different path. Yoga will change you in other ways too; revealing your important contribution as part of a greater Whole as well as recognizing your interconnectedness with others, your community, the world.

Once you begin your yoga practice you’ll notice how you’re more attuned to your body, thoughts and feelings. You’ll notice subtle changes. You’ll see things from a new perspective. Before you know it you’re eating healthy and healthful foods, getting regular exercise, moderating alcohol consumption and kicking the cigarette habit! Yoga can be your gateway to leading a healthy and well lifestyle…increasing the quality of your life right now and reducing the risk that you’ll be one of eight.

Health , Wellness & CURES!!

– Karen Whittier, Chief Activist and founder of Embrace Activism, is passionate about health and wellness. She created Embrace Activism to empower individuals to take more control over their own health destinies and make a difference. Embrace Activism is the online source for yoga products with a CAUSE. Health & eco-friendly as well as socially-conscious, Embrace Activism allows you to do MORE with your practice!

In addition to her role as Chief Activist for Embrace Activism, she is a registered yoga teacher. Her students range in age from preschool to senior citizen, from beginner to experienced. She enjoys and is gratified witnessing the transformation yoga brings to her students. Her blog, On & Off the Mat, shares tips, suggestions and articles on health and wellness topics. Visit the website at http://www.EmbraceActivism.com

Photos For This Article Supplied By Karen Whittier.