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Olivia Newton-John Cancer Centre
Wellness Centre
What is Wellness?
Wellness Centre Philosophy
Olivia's Vision
Look Good... Feel Better
Living With Cancer
Therapies
Cancer Support Group
Meditation
Relaxation
Music Therapy
Art Therapy
How you can help
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What is Meditation?
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In a world where progress is measured by developments in science, technology and economics, it is easy to lose touch with the gentler, more contemplative side of life.

The traditions of meditation date back to ancient times - in both eastern and western cultures. Meditation is not a cure for cancer, but the practise aims to improve quality of life. These qualities include:
  • Developing a sense of calmness or inner peace
  • Insight
  • Mental clarity

Although in some traditions meditation is associated with religious practice, the content of the meditation program facilitated by Austin Health, and for the proposed Centre, is non-religious.

 Meditation methods & techniques
 This program is for cancer patients and their carers. No meditation experience is necessary – there is a core regular group with newcomers joining each time.

In these sessions, patients will learn techniques that can be used at the hospital or at home. People are encouraged to practise outside the weekly group to maximise the benefits of meditation.

There are three types of meditation:
  • 'Mindfulness of Breathing' Meditation focuses the mind on the breath and encourages concentration
  • 'Meditation on Loving Kindness': generates and radiates positive thoughts
  • 'Walking Meditation' develops mindfulness


The techniques promote emotional healing and contribute to a general sense of well being and relaxation.

Meditation is a technique, which can improve quality of life through awareness of the present moment and developing a sense of peacefulness and relaxation. A trained meditator facilitates the meditation program.

When: This group meets weekly on a Tuesday 12.30
Where: Red Cross Centre at the Heidelberg Repatriation Hospital,
300 Waterdale Road Heidelberg West.
Contact: Wellness Program Coordinator. 94963799.

These sessions take place either individually or in a group setting. The techniques are taught sitting or lying in a comfortable position. The techniques can lead to an increasing sense of peace, tranquillity and calmness.

A tape is also available:

  • Contains instructions for meditation
  • How to practise meditation
  • Assists beginners
  • Facilitates progression for the more advanced meditator

 What can meditation achieve for patients?
 Cancer is traumatic for patients, their family and friends. Conventional treatments such as surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy are aimed at the physical condition and its symptoms. Allied health services available at the Centre assist with a wide range of social, psychological and physical needs. The meditation classes complement these services.

Most symptoms are due to the combined effects of physical illness and the emotional reaction to that illness, such as anxiety and depression.

The aim of meditation is to calm the mind by observing our breath, our thoughts and body sensations, to assist us in letting go of negative energies such as worry, anxiety and fear and to develop a sense of calm and inner peace to face the problems of life, rather than reacting to situations and symptoms.

The aim of meditation is to relax the mind and empty negative thoughts. By developing a sense of calm and inner peace, meditation can help to relieve these symptoms.

Practitioners of meditation often describe improvement in:
  • Pain
  • Anxiety
  • Sleeping patterns
  • General sense of wellbeing



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