Group sessions

A diagnosis of cancer and subsequent treatment can be really challenging. The relaxation support service aims to give you ideas, tools and techniques to help you cope better with the stresses you are facing.

Sessions offer a range of gentle strategy-based ideas and techniques including:

  • Simple breathing techniques to help induce a sense of calm and reduce anxiety
  • Effective ways to relax tension in your body to ease pain and discomfort
  • Practical ideas to help with poor sleep
  • Techniques to calm your mind and help you feel more steady
  • Gentle ways to support your energy levels and cope with fatigue
  • … and a host of other self-help tips, tools and techniques…

Session times

Monday 10.00am-11.15am
Tuesday 11.00am-12.15pm
Wednesday 2.00pm-3.15pm
Thursday 2.30pm-3.45pm

Classes are not held on public holidays.

Prior to the first session, you will meet the relaxation therapist and discuss your individual needs.

Places are limited so please book in advance by calling the Helpline (020 3826 2555).

To keep everyone safe, we continue to follow COVID-19 guidance. This will be explained to you when you book.

Do I have to pay for the classes?

All LJMC services are offered free of charge to NHS patients under the care of an oncologist based at Mount Vernon Cancer Centre.

The relaxation classes at the LJMC are funded by voluntary donations. Any contributions towards the cost of the service are therefore always gratefully received.

Private patients having treatment at Mount Vernon Cancer Centre may also be eligible to use our services. Please call the Helpline for details.

Other resources

Play Relaxation - a CD specially recorded for the LJMC

Our CD – Relaxation – is also available to purchase or download. This was recorded specially for the LJMC by our former relaxation therapist Ann Weston with music composed by Steph West.

Just click on the image to play the recording.

The most effective way of managing stress and anxiety is to make time for yourself and practise calming exercises regularly.

Download LJMC publications

PI83 Relaxation and breathing techniques PI83 Relaxation and breathing techniques
HHC313 Breathing space: Being mindful of your breath – an easy five-minute practice HHC313 Breathing space
HHC316 Using your senses to calm yourself: simple ways to use your senses to create a calm environment and help you when things get tough. HHC316 Using your senses to calm yourself
HHC213 Coping with anxiety: ways to help you cope with anxiety and sources of help HHC213 Coping with anxiety