Workshops For Breast Cancer Survivors

The Adelphi NY Statewide Breast Cancer Hotline & Support Program, as part of their Complementary Wellness Series, is sponsoring programs on nutrition, handmade journals, Kripalu Danskinetic and reiki. They are open only to people who have had breast cancer. All are held at Adelphi University's Alumni House, 154 Cambridge Avenue, Garden City. The workshops are supported by a grant from The New York State Department of Health, Community Based Cancer Support Services.

The workshops are free and pre-registration is required. Call 516-877-4325.

1. Nutrition: a free workshop for breast cancer survivors Tuesday, January 22, 7 pm to 8:30 pm

How is diet related to breast cancer? Which foods and nutrients have received attention in the media? "This workshop helps sort through this often confusing information about food choices," says nutritionist Jessica Ianotta. "Participants will learn how to interpret nutrition labels and learn strategies for meal planning that will promote health and weight status."

Jessica Iannotta, RD, studied nutrition at Cornell University and completed her internship at New York-Presbyterian Hospital Cornell Medical Center. She now works as a clinical dietician specializing in oncology and has a special interest in the role of nutrition and diet as is pertains to prevention of cancer and chronic disease.

2. Handmade Journals: a free workshop for breast cancer survivors

Monday, February 4, 7 pm to 8:30 pm

Diaries, books and journals have been used throughout history to record life events and experiences. "You'll learn techniques to create your own handmade keepsake to preserve private thoughts and observations while increasing personal awareness," says art educator Shari Zimmerman.

Shari Zimmerman, MA in Art Education, is a certified art educator and art teacher in the East Meadow School District. She is also a breast cancer survivor.

Optional: Bring personal writings or favorite poems. No artistic ability necessary. All supplies will be provided.

3. Kripalu Danskinetics: a free workshop for breast cancer survivors

Wednesday, February 13, 7 pm to 8:30 pm

Danskinetics is a form of movement that combines yoga and dance in a creative, easy, delightful way. Participants will improve their muscle tone, flexibility and balance, while releasing inner tensions. "If you can take a brisk walk, you can do Danskenetics," says instructor JoAnn Devine. No dance experience is necessary.

A lifelong dancer, JoAnn Devine is a 13-year breast cancer survivor who found that yoga helped her after diagnosis. Her years in yoga brought her to Kripalu yoga where she found Danskinetics.

4. Reiki: a free workshop for breast cancer survivors

Wednesday, February 27, 7 pm to 8:30 pm

Through gentle touch, reiki moves energy through the body to promote balance and provide deep relaxation and accelerated healing. "Anyone can tap into their 'life force' energy using holistic, hands-on techniques to restore harmony," says instructor Kathie Lipinski.

Kathie Lipinski, RN, MSN, CH, is a licensed usui/karuna reiki master teacher, a holistic nurse in private practice and a certified hypnotist.