Utilizing dance as therapy for Parkinson's Disease is not a novel idea; it has been scientifically researched for many years and is now accepted world-wide as beneficial regarding increased flexibility, sense of acceptance and well-being.
The classes are structured with mindfulness the center component through sitting Yogic poses, voice, rhythm, music and acceptance.
Martina volunteers her time and anyone interested in joining in are more than welcomed as a helper or student. Be on the lookout for more editorials on Health and Wellness for our Community. Please contact Jo Hughes for information regarding classes and her support group.
For Your Information:
Parkinson's disease affects the way a person moves. Symptoms begin when a person experiences a "problem" with certain nerve cells in the brain called the basal ganglia and the substantia nigra. Normally, these nerve cells make an important chemical called dopamine. Dopamine sends signals to the part of your brain that controls movement, the primary motor cortex, or M1. While the disease chiefly affects middle-aged and elderly individuals, it can be diagnosed much earlier, as in the much-reported case of actor Michael J. Fox.
Parkinson's disease signs and symptoms may include the following:
- A tremor, or shaking, usually begins in a limb, often in the individual's hand(s) or finger(s).
- Slowness in the execution of movement (bradykinesia)
- Rigid muscles (including facial muscles)
- Impaired posture and balance
- Loss of automatic movements (reflexes)
- Speech changes
- Handwriting changes
In the research and testing of Parkinson’s treatments, alternative and complementary medicine are of great interest in the medical community. While nutritional changes have not been shown to slow the progress of the disease, an overall better diet and lifestyle help mood and desire to keep active. The use of movement, sound, and especially music appears to be beneficial in improving motor, affective, and behavioral functions. With this proven connection in mind, the inclusion of yoga’s sound, breath, and rhythm practices in a sequence may help individuals with Parkinson's disease experience movement with a greater sense of ease.