Yoga can be practiced by anyone of any age. It can be practiced when and where you wish, in the comfort of your own home if preferred, but it is advisable to have a few classes with an expert first so as to learn the basic principles and techniques.
Yoga can be particularly helpful in reducing muscle rigidity and in increasing balance, flexibility and strength, all of which can be diminished by Parkinson’s. But, because yoga offers an holistic approach to body, mind and spirit, it can also provide people with Parkinson’s with ‘tools’ to cope with the challenges of daily life. For many it offers emotional stability - an inner peace and sense of calm – as well as overcoming some of the physical symptoms of the illness. In a survey conducted by the Parkinson’s Disease Society (UK), 95% of people with Parkinson’s who had practiced yoga found it to be beneficial, rating it very highly on the list of complementary therapies.
Yoga can complement medical science and traditional therapies. It is thought to help energise the body and mind, improve concentration and reduce stress, so it can be very beneficial to those with Parkinson’s as well as their families and carers.
As with all physical therapies, some people with Parkinson’s may find some of the activities challenging, but techniques may be adapted to suit individuals, for example a chair may be used for support instead of lying on a mat – your teacher should be able to advise on this.
