Dealing with cancer is complex. There are many different types of cancer, as well as a wide range of symptoms and side effects that likely need to be managed throughout the journey. Because of this, there are also many Jin Shin Jyutsu (JSJ) self-help tips that can offer gentle support.
To make this easier to follow and more practical, I have divided the information into two articles. This is the first one and it focuses on simple, accessible practices you can begin using right away to support your well-being during radiation and chemotherapy, as well as managing feelings of depression. The second article will cover fatigue, organ support, lymphoedema, mucositis, heartburn and more.
The information shared here is inspired by a booklet created by Marie Blackford, a cancer survivor and Jin Shin Jyutsu (JSJ) practitioner from New Zealand, as well as my own studies and experiences at the West Island Cancer Wellness Centre
Working in Harmony with Medical Care
These practices are meant to support your well-being and comfort. They do not replace medical advice or treatment. It is important to continue following the guidance of your healthcare team and to speak with them about any questions or concerns you may have.
I can’t emphasise enough that you can’t make a mistake when practising JSJ—you can only become more efficient with it. It is a very safe practice and you can do no harm.
Marie Blackford’s Experience
“When I was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2005 and had a recurrence in 2007, I used the material from Mary Burmeister’s three Self-Help books to support myself on my journey. By placing my hands on my body daily in simple Jin Shin Jyutsu sequences, I was able to relieve stress, ease pain, and release fears and worries. Many treatment side effects and discomforts were eased quickly.
I felt empowered by being able to help myself, and my family became involved in my care. What could have been a lonely journey became a meaningful and shared experience.”
The Strength of Shared Care
In my experience, many people find it difficult to ask for help during this time. Marie’s story is a gentle reminder that inviting loved ones to be part of your care can be comforting—not only for you, but for them as well.
Mary Burmeister’s three Self-Help books are available to buy here.
Here is the very Basic Self-Help:
- Hold your Fingers
Gently hold one finger at a time by wrapping the other hand around a finger. This helps to harmonize your body’s energy and can release stored up emotions. There is no time limit – the more you hold them the better. You can be waiting for an appointment, having a chat with a friend. Try it whenever your hands are free. For more details see my blog The Attitudes.
- The “Main Central” Flow
This sequence is the foundational harmonizer for your body. It lessens fatigue, supports your endocrine and immune systems, just to name a few things. It is recommended to do every day. For more details see my blog my Favourite Flow
JSJ Support for Radiation Therapy
These safe and gentle practices may help you feel more comfortable before and after treatment:
- Before treatment
Practice the “Main Central” flow and hold each finger to help encourage a sense of calm. - After treatment (cooling the area)
With your right hand over your left hand, gently hover your hands over the treated area (your left hand is closest to your body). Do not touch the skin. This may help draw out heat and ease discomfort. Stay in this position until the area feels cooler. You can repeat this as often as you like. A loved one can also do this for you.
- After treatment (cooling the body) – Palming the Calves
Ask a friend or family member to gently place one hand on each calf for about 20 minutes. Ideally, they sit or stand near your feet, placing their left hand on your left calf and right hand on your right calf, with fingers pointing toward your head.
You can also hold your own calves in a way that feels most comfortable, with your fingers pointing either toward your head or your feet.
Marie had great success by placing her right hand over her left hand above the area being treated by radiation therapy and “Palming the Calves”. The nursing staff were impressed that her skin looked so good. They asked her what she was doing.
JSJ Support for Chemotherapy
- Before your Treatment: Do the “Main Central” to help maintain balance in your body.
2. During or after your chemotherapy treatment: Have someone do “Opposite Fingers & Toes”. This sequence keeps your energy flowing, so that your body can receive the benefits of the medication while simultaneously allowing your body to let go of the waste toxins.
The other person wraps one hand around your thumb (left) and holds the opposite little toe (right) with their free hand. Hold each corresponding finger and toe for about 2–3 minutes, or longer if you feel a pulsation. Wait for the pulsation to subside before moving on to the next finger and toe. After a few minutes, they should hold your left index finger and your fourth right toe. Continue until all 10 fingers and 10 toes have been held. There is no time limit for completion. Visit my blog “Opposite Fingers and Toes” for visuals and more details.
3. To help your immune system – Hold your shoulder close to your neck with the opposite hand and place your other hand on the same side groin. Hold for about 20 minutes then switch sides and repeat.
4. If your white blood cell count is too low – hold the ball of your left foot with your left hand and hold your left little toe with your right hand. Hold for at least 20 minutes. Then reverse to do the other side. If you are unable to comfortably reach your feet, your support person can apply this hold for you.
5. Palm the Calves to help remove the chemical effects in your body and help with any skin rashes (see the above section on Radiation Therapy).
JSJ Support for Depression
When feeling overcome with sadness, this may disrupt the energy of the stomach and large intestines and may contribute to depression. These self-help tips have the potential to soothe and uplift you:
- To re-harmonize the energies of these organs, simply give yourself a big hug by crossing your arms and placing your fingers in your armpits with your thumbs resting on your chest. Exhale and inhale for 36 cycles or until you feel calm and secure.
2. Hold your left thumb by wrapping your right hand around it. Then hold your left ring finger for a few minutes each. Then switch and hold the right thumb and then right ring finger
3. Another easy option is to hold your palms together, like in prayer position or with your hands clasped.
The next article will cover fatigue, organ support, lymphoedema, mucositis, heartburn and more. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or comments.
