The mind and body are deeply connected. Your thoughts, emotions, and physical health influence one another, impacting your immune system, recovery, and overall well-being. Research has shown that positive emotions, such as happiness and joy, can enhance immune function.

During the days and weeks after your transplant, you may feel emotionally drained and physically fatigued. These feelings are expected, given the intensity of the ASCT process. Your loved ones may also experience emotional ups and downs. Support from social workers, counselors, or support groups can be incredibly helpful in navigating these challenges.

In this section, you’ll find complementary therapy suggestions to help balance your mind and body during and after ASCT. Whether through meditation, movement, creative expression, or laughter, these approaches can support healing and improve quality of life.

Complementary & Alternative Therapy Suggestions

Mindfulness & Emotional Well-Being

• Visualization & Guided Imagery
  • A relaxation technique that helps create harmony between the mind and body.
  • Can improve coping skills and emotional resilience.
  • Suggested resource: Meditation for Bone Marrow & Stem Cell Transplant.
• Mindfulness Meditation
  • Involves deep breathing and guided imagery.
  • Benefits: reduces stress, enhances relaxation, and improves emotional well-being.
• Journaling
  • A gratitude journal or daily reflections can provide emotional clarity.
  • Writing can help process emotions, improve sleep, and support psychological adjustment.
• Photography
  • Taking or viewing uplifting photos can reduce stress and provide a mental escape.
• Music & Videos
  • Listening to calming music or watching nature videos can promote relaxation.
• Art Therapy
  • Painting, crafts, or puzzles offer a creative and therapeutic outlet.
• Laughter Therapy
  • Laughter has been shown to boost the immune system and improve mood.
  • Find a joke website, comedy specials, or ask friends to share funny stories.
• Support Groups
  • Connecting with other myeloma and transplant patients can be invaluable.
  • Resources:
    • Gilda’s Club
    • Local cancer support groups (ask your healthcare team for recommendations).
• Physical Well-Being & Movement
• Gentle & Restorative Therapies

• Massage Therapy

  • Can help with fatigue, anxiety, and muscle relaxation.

  • Consult your oncologist before starting, especially if you have bone involvement.

• Physical Therapy, Heat Therapy, Aqua Therapy

  • Helps maintain strength, flexibility, and mobility.

  • Discuss options with your oncologist before starting.

• Yoga, Tai Chi, & Qigong

  • Yoga: Focuses on physical postures and flexibility.

  • Qigong: Uses slow movements, breathwork, and visualization.

  • Tai Chi: A gentle martial art that improves balance and strength.

  • Free Resources: Many guided videos are available on YouTube.

• Tapping (EFT Technique)

  • A stress-relief technique based on Chinese acupressure.

  • Resource: The Tapping Solution.

• Walking Indoors or Outdoors

  • Helps strengthen bones and heart health.

  • Often the first recommended exercise after ASCT.

  • Gradually increase pace and distance as strength improves.

• Walking a Labyrinth

  • An ancient practice for centering, meditation, and mindfulness.

  • Research locations in your area for access to a labyrinth walk.

• Holistic Approaches & Healing Practices

• Aromatherapy

  • Essential oils (such as peppermint for nausea or lavender for relaxation) can promote emotional wellness.

  • Be mindful of strong scents—some patients may be sensitive post-transplant.

• Teas (Peppermint & Ginger for Nausea)

  • Some teas can help with digestion and relaxation.

  • Always check with your doctor before adding new teas, especially with medications like Revlimid.

• Supplements

  • Turmeric with black pepper (Bioperine) may support anti-inflammatory benefits.

  • Always consult your physician before taking supplements post-transplant.

• Apps for Mind & Body Wellness

• Calm – Meditation, sleep stories, and relaxation music.

• Headspace – Guided meditation for mindfulness and stress relief.

• Walking Apps – Track movement and increase daily steps.

• Insight Timer – Free guided meditations and expert talks.

• Relax Melodies – Sleep sounds, bedtime stories, and meditation music.

• Mini Projects & Daily Positivity Practices

• Positivity Cards & Affirmations

  • Affirmations can be used as reminders to stay hopeful and focused.

  • Create cards with statements such as:

    • "I am healing."

    • "My body is getting stronger every day."

    • "This is temporary."

  • Resource: Free Affirmations.

• Mantras

  • Short, repeated positive statements that reinforce mental clarity and focus.

• Vision Board

  • A visual representation of your future goals.

  • Use images, quotes, and personal aspirations to stay motivated.

  • Can serve as a source of strength and encouragement during recovery.