In an effort to aid those grappling with Parkinson's disease, the Kirk Gibson Foundation for Parkinson's has teamed up with Yoga Moves MS to offer free adaptive yoga classes. The classes, which kicked off on March 6, are structured to cater to individuals of all abilities, focusing on the unique needs of Parkinson's patients. According to the WXYZ, participants will have the opportunity to engage in yoga every Wednesday at Congregation Shaarey Zedek in Southfield.
The sessions feature a range of modified yoga poses using various props, like chairs, to assist those with movement disorders. Specially trained instructors are on hand to guide participants through static and dynamic flow movements. The classes run from 11 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. and yoga mats are supplied. Interested parties can reserve a spot in the "Yoga Moves Parkinson's" program by calling or visiting the Yoga Moves MS website, detailed in a statement obtained by WXYZ.
Barbara Perry, a participant who has engaged in yoga for nearly three decades, appreciates the physical and mental benefits the classes offer. "It helps with everything — mentally, physically. It's good for stretching and relaxing because Parkinson's is really a tough disease," Perry told The Detroit News. The program proves to be deeply personal for Cameron Gibson, Kirk Gibson's youngest son, who described his father as incredibly active and noted the positive effects of physical exercise on Parkinson's symptoms.
Parkinson's disease is characterized by symptoms such as tremors, slow movement, and stiffness, and the Yoga Moves Parkinson's classes aim to address these issues through tailored exercises that promote balance, strength, flexibility, and improved mood. The initiative, funded through a generous grant from the Gibson Foundation, is said to provide techniques that aid in calming the nervous system, reducing stress, and enhancing overall well-being. These sentiments were echoed by the foundation's namesake, Kirk Gibson, who emphasized the importance of classes taught by instructors who understand the needs of those with Parkinson's, according to the Macomb Daily.
For more information on the programs or to learn more about the Kirk Gibson Foundation for Parkinson’s, visit their respective websites. Congregation Shaarey Zedek is located at 27375 Bell Rd., in Southfield, Michigan.
