5 minute read
Music and movement counteracts Parkinson’s
counteracts Parkinson’s progression
By Lynn Jacobs
Parkinson’s disease and dancing may seem like odd bedfellows.
Yet, every Friday a group of seniors gathers for a rejuvenating combination of music, movement and visualization to combat the effects of Parkinson’s.
Parkinson’s symptoms typically develop in those over age 50. Symptoms include tremors, balance issues, slower movements and the body not cooperating when the brain tells it to do something. While some of these issues accompany aging, they are exacerbated by Parkinson’s.
Laura Hymers Treglia, a dancer and teacher at Ormao Dance Company, journeyed to New York for specialized training in the integration of music and movement specifically for Parkinson’s patients. Her hour-long class uses rhythm and creativity to physically and cognitively challenge students in a safe and fun way.
“It’s not physical therapy. It’s not medical,” explained Treglia, 48. “It’s an artistic experience that brings therapeutic benefits.”
ON THE MOVE
Although walking and coordination can become difficult for people with Parkinson’s, Treglia said continuing to move is crucial to slowing the progression of the non-curable disease. There is freedom in seeing what the body can do, rather than lamenting what it can’t. The topic of the disease rarely comes up.
Exercises vary week to week, but visualization is often used to inspire participants to choreograph their own movements to share with the class. Other attendees add on to the sequence with their interpretations.
“We do exercises in imagination and tying physical movement to ideas,” said Kathy Kasley, 73, who has attended the class for three years. “We might imagine the movement that expresses springtime or anger and put those movements into dance.”
Participants gather in a circle for a warmup, both seated and standing movements for dances, and then a cooldown. Two instructors are always present. One remains seated throughout the entire class to model movements for those in a wheelchair or anyone who doesn’t feel like standing that day.
A large-screen TV comprises part of the circle so students at home can Zoom in and participate in real time. Prior dance training is not required, and caregivers and significant others are encouraged to attend.
“When care partners and spouses come, it takes them outside their daily life,” Treglia said. “It helps them to see each other in a new way when they move together. It’s beautiful.”
Kasley attends class with her husband Donald Ader, 72, who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s five years ago. Ader, a retired dental assistant, has difficulties with balance and pain when standing. Kasley attends for her own exercise and to encourage her husband.
“I don’t know why,” said Kasley, “but with Parkinson’s, it seems to make the physical movement easier to do when music is added.”
THE CREATIVE PROCESS
Ader, who especially enjoys musical selections from the ’60s and ’70s, says the class makes him stronger. Kasley said she sees improvements in his movement the day after class.
“It’s a beautiful change,” Treglia said, describing the mood improvement she sees in class participants. “The laughter is especially rewarding to see, since facial movement can become difficult for those fighting the disease.”
Former teacher and Pilates instructor Anne Bradley was diagnosed with Parkinson’s four years ago and attends class regularly. She especially benefits from the stretching and cross-body movement in class.
For her, the “creative process” is the best part.
“We communicate through movement with other people in class,” said Bradley. “It’s wonderful because it’s a very creative thing and you exercise your mind to remember the steps.”
Ader pushes himself at physical therapy on Mondays and Thursdays, but he always attends the Friday class.
“It’s my reward for working hard all week,” he said.
Bradley leads a very busy life, but even with her many obligations, she makes time to attend dance class every week.
“You must keep moving,” Bradley says. “Challenge yourself beyond what you think you can do.” ■
Dance For Parkinson’s
Ormao Dance Company
10 S. Spruce St. 11 a.m.-12 p.m. | Fridays | $5 | 719-471-9759
EXERCISE AS MEDICINE
Exercise is part of a many-pronged attack to combat Parkinson’s. Medicine, physical therapy, diet, surgery and good mental health are also important tools in the fight.
YMCA is partnering with Parkinson’s Wellness Recovery (PWR!) to create a comprehensive, neuroplasticity-principled program that integrates the latest exercise and wellness research. Parkinson’s Exercise Program (PEP) provides a supportive exercise environment to optimize brain recovery and repair at the following locations: ■ Tri-Lakes YMCA
17250 Jackson Creek Pkwy., Monument 1:30-2:30 p.m. | Tuesday & Thursday | 719-481-8728
■ Briargate YMCA
4025 Family Place 1:30-2:30 p.m. | Monday, Wednesday & Friday | 719-282-9622 YMCA Members: $32 for 6 classes Non-members: $50 for 6 classes Classes are ongoing, every two weeks.
For more information about PEP, contact: ■ Evidence Based Health Initiatives (EBHI)
Jamie Clayton, Program Coordinator 719-329-7233 | wellness@ppymca.org. ■ Emily Moncheski, PT, MSPT
Certified Parkinson’s Wellness Recovery therapist teaches personalized classes and offers a free phone consultation. 719-213-3996
COLORADO SPRINGS PARKINSON’S SUPPORT GROUP
Meets monthly on the second Saturday at 10 a.m.
■ First United Methodist Church
420 N. Nevada Ave., meets in the basement with elevator access. 719-495-1853
