Are there strategies for me to employ during the day that can help with my Parkinson’s?
Yes there are. I have spent time developing strategies for my clients with Parkinson’s to practice during the day that can make things better.
As I like to say, I’ve seen small changes make big differences.
Here are four things you can do while waiting in line at the grocery store to improve your Parkinson’s symptoms:
Practice balancing on one leg
As you stand in the cue, slightly bend the stance leg at the knee and the hip and raise the opposite leg. See how many seconds you can last for three attempts, then switch to the opposite leg. Use the shopping cart for stabilization.
Lift your toes up as high as you can and balance on your heels
Parkinson’s can make it difficult to lift the toes when walking so exercises such as this are great at getting the muscles on the front of the shin to fire. Imagine trying to touch your knee with your toes and you’ll have it!
Practice good posture
First, make sure you understand the body’s positioning of proper posture. If you’re uncertain, watch my short video “Patrick’s Posture Lesson”:
Click here for Patrick’s posture lesson
As you wait in line, stand in a strong and proper posture for 5 seconds, then let your posture go. Slump forward, rolling the shoulders forward and bend the head forward and down, ever so slightly. Count to 4 as you perform this slow slump forward, on “4”, snap yourself back to perfect and strong posture, clench all of your muscles, and hold for 5 full seconds.
By clenching your muscles you will quickly create muscle memory for good posture. Repeat until it’s time to pay the cashier. Don’t forget to pay.
Practice your fine motor skill
When you get up to the impulse purchase rack near the register with all of the wonderful candy and educational tabloids, reach out with your right hand and grab a pack of chewing gum. Transfer it to your left hand and replace it.
Then reach out with your left hand and grab a different pack of gum, switch it to your right hand and replace it. Continue this until you feel that the people around are beginning to think that you are a very indecisive person.
In closing, you can find small challenges to practice throughout the day to improve your function. You don’t always need spend hours at the gym to make a difference, so get creative and find small rituals that are challenging but fun. If you’re looking for ideas, browse my library of free videos on my website on Parkinsons and exercise, or purchased one of my comprehensive DVD programs.
Got Parkinson’s? Feel Better with Patrick’s Exercise Programs!
Quick & effective
The 5 minute DVD
Parkinson’s Exercise DVD – $29.50
You can improve your health and vitality in the comfort of your home in little as 5 minutes a day.
Learn more/Purchase
Greater intensity
The Parkinson’s Brain&Body Bar
The Brain&Body Bar – $99.50
A Fun, unique and effective way to build strength and flexibility
Learn more/Purchase
Greater intensity
The Parkinson’s Brain&Body Bar
The Parkinson’s Exercise Ball – $99.50
Used by individuals, therapists and trainers to improve function and health for PWP.
Learn more/Purchase
BUYER COMMENTS
“It used to be that I couldn’t get up from a chair but after using the 5 Minute Workouts, I can get up by myself.” Sara K. Age 72, Manhattan, New York
Sara K.
Age 72, Manhattan, New York
“Thank you Patrick! The DVDs I purchased have made an incredible change in the way I think of my disease and the way I feel. I’m fighting back!”
Leonard P.
Age 68, Manhattan Beach, CA
“This DVD program is fun and I feel so much better. My shoulder used to hurt and I couldn’t raise my right arm. Now I can!”
Nathan W.
Age 69, Rhode Island
“I use my DVD every morning. It makes me feel so much better through the day.” Rhonda B. Age 72, Montreal, Canada
Rhonda B.
Age 72, Montreal, Canada
“I actually went back to the (golf) driving range one month after using the Bar. I got my golf swing back, not quite what it used to be but it was fun!”
Sandy M.
Age 81, Chicago, IL
“I tried other DVD programs but none of them has made me feel as great as I feel now using the BrainBall and the Bar.” Oscar B, Age 56, De Moines, IA
Oscar B,
Age 56, De Moines, IA
“I love the beautiful locations. I t takes me back to wonderful trips my fly fishing. I feel so refreshed even after just 5 minutes.”
Mel R.
Age 91, Montana
“Where I live, there are no trainers that specialize in Parkinson’s. Patrick’s DVDs have given me hope and have definitely improved my health and balance.”
Meagan S.
Age 62, Bakersfield, CA
“I now use the Brain&Body Bar every day. It’s had an amazing effect on my posture, balance and strength. Plus it’s fun!”
Peter R.
Age 76, Chicago, IL
“Just the other day I dropped a heavy lief of a table, it would have crushed my foot but I reacted quickly and moved my body and foot out of the way. I completely believe that I was able to react and move so fast because of Patrick’s exercises.”
Anita W.
Age 81 Los Angeles, CA
“I have been using the Parkinson’s Exercise DVD Program now for three months and I feel so much stronger, confident and balanced. Thanks Patrick!”
Vick F.
Age 78, Los Angeles,
