A new community programme launching in York this September is offering women affected by cancer a welcoming space to move, connect and support their wellbeing—whatever stage of their cancer journey they are on.
Reclaim, delivered by York-based creative health organisation Moving Minds, is a 12-week programme for women living with cancer, undergoing treatment, recovering from treatment, living beyond cancer, or supporting someone with cancer.
The programme is founded on a growing body of evidence showing that movement can play an important role in supporting people affected by cancer. Alongside the well-recognised physical benefits of being active, research suggests that creative movement and dance can help people reconnect with their bodies, improve wellbeing, reduce feelings of isolation and build supportive relationships with others who understand their experiences.
Elaine Harvey, Founder of Moving Minds, said: “Cancer changes much more than physical health. Whether someone has recently been diagnosed, is undergoing treatment, has completed treatment or is supporting someone they love, it can affect confidence, identity and emotional wellbeing. We created Reclaim because movement has a unique ability to help people reconnect—with their bodies, with their emotions and with one another. It isn’t about learning dance routines or being physically fit. It’s about creating a safe, welcoming space where women can move in ways that feel right for them, rediscover confidence and experience the joy that movement can bring.”
Unlike traditional exercise classes, Reclaim uses gentle, creative movement that can be adapted to every participant’s needs and energy levels.
No previous dance experience is required, and every session is designed to be inclusive, supportive and responsive to individual circumstances.
The programme is delivered by experienced dance practitioners with specialist training in working with people affected by cancer.
Reclaim begins on Wednesday 9 September 7-8.30pm at St Aelred’s Community Centre, Tang Hall, with places limited to maintain a supportive group environment.
Moving Minds is working alongside healthcare professionals and community organisations across the city to help women discover the programme. Women are welcome to self-refer or be introduced by healthcare professionals and support organisations.
Elaine added: “Our hope is that every woman affected by cancer knows there is somewhere she can come exactly as she is. Whether she’s seeking gentle movement, meaningful connection or simply an hour where cancer doesn’t define the conversation, she’ll find a warm welcome at Reclaim.”
About Moving Minds
Moving Minds is a York-based creative health organisation that uses dance and creative movement to improve health, wellbeing and social connection. Working across health, social care and community settings, the organisation creates inclusive programmes that support physical, emotional and social wellbeing through creativity.
Website details: https://www.movingmindsdance.co.uk/projects/reclaim—gentle-movement-%26-connection-for-women-affected-by-cancer