A little over a month ago, University Hospitals Movement Disorder Center, in partnership with Courage Steps for Parkinson’s Foundation Northeast Region, offered a Boot Camp for those diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease (PD). Friends and family members were also invited to attend.
The hands-on day event contained a multitude of sessions. Engaging benefits of physical therapy, research on the advantages of exercise, dance therapy, yoga therapy, medical and surgical therapies, meditation, and Parkinson’s up-to-date research, were some of the programs.
A dynamic yoga therapy demonstration was one of the programs. It was conducted to teach how yoga as a complementary therapy may benefit those with movement symptoms. Medical centers define Parkinson’s as a, “chronic, progressive neurodegenerative movement disorder. Characteristics of primary symptoms may include tremors, rigidity, slow movement (bradykinesia), poor balance and difficulty walking (parkinsonian gait)”.
Approximately 60 people attended the yoga session. Reminiscent music boomed, feet stamped and bodies moved up and down. Instructions were channeled so postures would illustrate an appropriate alignment. Modifications were taught and aspects of mindfulness were revealed.
Of the 1.5 million Americans with Parkinson’s disease, up to 225,000 are under the age of 50. In the United States, there are an estimated 480,000 people over the age of 65 who are living with Parkinson’s. Unfortunately, these number do not even reflect the thousands of cases that go undetected.
Studies have shown that people with PD may benefit from yoga to improve strength, flexibility, balance, overall fitness, mind and body techniques and a compassionate quality of life.
During the yoga therapy session, breath work, specific asanas (poses), and mindfulness provided exuberating feelings of growth, self-awareness and relaxation.
Participants learned that yoga is not a cure, but it will help determine how to be open to ways of managing health and fitness abilities.
Additional information:
Consult with your physician before you begin a yoga program or join a yoga class. Classes that focus on proper alignment and gentle relaxation may benefit your level, but should be investigated.
Char Grossman presents workshops for people with Parkinson’s and will offer teacher training seminars for yoga teachers.
Read more:
Livestrong article about yoga and Parkinson’s disease
Link to the Mayo Clinic about Parkinson’s Disease
Why yoga can be helpful to those living with Parkinson’s disorder. Wellsphere: 2008 December.
Three other Livestrong articles:
http://www.livestrong.com/article/40510-yoga-parkinsons-disease/
http://www.livestrong.com/article/68136-parkinsons-disease-leg-symptoms
http://www.livestrong.com/article/106735-balance-exercises-parkinsons/
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