Yoga Cuts Insomnia, Fatigue in 206 Cancer Survivors Over 4 Weeks
Updated
Updated · Fox News · May 30
Yoga Cuts Insomnia, Fatigue in 206 Cancer Survivors Over 4 Weeks
2 articles · Updated · Fox News · May 30
A clinical trial found 206 cancer survivors who added the YOCAS yoga program to standard care reported better sleep, less fatigue and improved mood after four weeks, while 204 receiving standard care alone did not.
YOCAS participants averaged 180 minutes a week across three sessions, using gentle hatha and restorative yoga with breathing exercises and mindfulness.
Researchers said insomnia and mood disturbance are among the most persistent problems after cancer treatment and can limit everyday functioning; the study suggests sleep gains may be linked to broader improvements in mood and fatigue.
Experts called yoga a low-cost, non-drug option that can be adapted for survivors with physical limitations, with benefits that may extend to balance, stamina and emotional recovery.
How does yoga physically alter the body to fight cancer's lingering side effects?
With clear benefits, why don't more oncologists prescribe yoga to their patients?
ASCO 2026 YOCAS Trial: Four Weeks of Gentle Yoga Significantly Reduces Insomnia, Fatigue, and Mood Disturbance in Cancer Survivors
Overview
The 2026 ASCO Annual Meeting highlighted the YOCAS trial, which showed that a four-week, gentle yoga program can significantly reduce insomnia, fatigue, anxiety, and mood disturbance in cancer survivors. Developed by researchers at the University of Rochester, YOCAS blends Hatha and Restorative yoga with movement, breathwork, and mindfulness. These improvements are important because mood disturbance and insomnia are common and challenging issues for survivors, often severely impacting their quality of life. The YOCAS trial’s results suggest that structured yoga can be an effective, non-pharmaceutical way to help cancer survivors feel better after treatment.