B-SMART stands for Breast Cancer Stress Management And Relaxation Training. It's a class that meets for two hours each week. Each session teaches participants concrete skills for dealing with the stressors of daily life and the compounding stress of living with breast cancer. In addition, each week participants learn a new relaxation technique. From deep breathing to guided imagery to self-hypnosis, women learn how to take time each day to relax their minds and bodies.

Women who've participated in the class report lowered levels of depression and anxiety, as well as lowered levels of perceived stress.

The class is fun, informative, and creates an environment where women living with breast cancer support one another while they learn coping strategies and techniques to take the best possible care of themselves. The only requirement for attending is having had a breast cancer diagnosis.

Whether you're newly diagnosed or have been living with the diagnosis for decades, you have something to learn and contribute in this class. This class is generously underwritten by the Komen for the Cure, Madison Affiliate and the Wisconsin Women's Health Foundation. There is no charge for participating in this exciting and informative class. Registration is for the entire 8 week course.

Call 608-828-8880 to learn more.

Dr. Teresa Woods facilitates the B-SMART program. Part of the team designing the original B-SMART programs at the University of Miami, Teri has been involved with these classes for over fifteen years. As the former Director of Cancer Psychology at the Paul P. Carbone Comprehensive Cancer Center, Teri has extensive experience is working with women living with cancer as well as their families. Teri received her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the University of Miami and is currently in private practice at The Psychology Center in Madison.