At one time, you might have been very excited about planning what you wanted to accomplish each year. But how realistic such planning can be, especially when many aspirations require you to have your best physical abilities? Despite the fact that Parkinson’s fighters have a hard time predicting how the disease will limit their abilities, there are no reasons to abandon the idea of having resolutions as the calendar flips a digit.
Sticking to New Year’s resolutions can be tough for people with Parkinson’s, but picking a beneficial resolution can lead to significant improvements in symptoms and quality of life. Here are 5 resolutions that might just be possible and best-suited for Parkinson’s fighters. All you need is discipline, encouragement and the support from your loved ones to stick to them.
1. Exercising daily
Many neuroscientific studies suggest that exercising regularly can improve brain function in patients with a neurological disorder. The end result may be a slowing of the Parkinson’s progression.
Learning how to make time to exercise everyday can help get your life organized and into a healthy routine. If you enjoy slow flowing methodical movements that challenge your balance and stability then tai chi is the exercise for you. If you enjoy walking around the park then that is the right activity for you. As long as the exercise is enjoyable and allows you to move better in Parkinson’s, it is the right pick for you. Here are some tips to make the most of your exercise regime.
2. Taking a break
That ‘5 km jog’ you planned every morning is a bit tougher, especially when your body is at risk of overtiring itself due to Parkinson’s. Instead, resolve to get out of breath every day (in healthy way). Walk the dog, try non-contact boxing or dance in a clutter-free space. The idea is to have fun and take a break from normal routine.
3. Smiling everyday
As confirmed by studies, smiling, even if you don’t feel like it, can help to ease stress, boost your immune system and trigger the release of happiness hormone – endorphins. Because masked face in Parkinson’s can make it harder to smile, we’ve got you 7 Simplest Facial Exercises for Parkinson’s.
4. Having an adventure (no matter how small)
Parkinson’s will try to make your life monotonous. But, it’s you who will have to bounce back. Having a little adventure once in a while can help you do that. Now, the question is “how would you do that when adventures can’t be a sport or physical activity?”
Well, go against the norms. Ask your caregiver to cook something completely new and outside your comfort zone for dinner (yet Parkinson’s-friendly) or get tickets to a play you would never normally watch. Post finishing these activities, you may remember how much you hated all those things once. Now, you can return to your regular life with satisfaction of trying something new.
5. Falling in love with yourself
Life is hard with Parkinson’s, and there are days when it feels like giving up would be easier. Challenges posed by the disease can make you start listening to your doubt, fear, and self-limiting beliefs. Remember, how you live and spend each day is important. Self-love will open you up to winning your battle against Parkinson’s.
Stop taking your health for granted. Pay attention to the effects that the foods you eat and the exercises you do have on your body. Spending more time with loved ones (friends, family or people you met in a support group) should help you fall in love with you and your life.
In today’s age of information, you can watch a video, or listen to a podcast anytime — all from your tablet. There are roadblocks on the path to fulfillment, but certain motivating content can help you overcome the barriers. Always remember, you are the only one of YOU in this world, and that should be enough to make you smile.
This Blog is contributed by Dr. Rimpy kanwar. She has more than 8 years of working experience in the field of Physical Therapy. Her expertise lies in ortho-neuro and Pulmonary rehabilitation cases.
