August 1, 2011
Parkinson’s is a disease of the elderly. If this myth were a reality, my pharmacy shopping basket would not include a Mirapex prescription alongside tampons and No. 2 pencils. If this myth were a reality, there would be more gray hair among the students in my yoga classes. Conversations would be filled with tales of retirement rather than of the challenges of balancing career and family with a chronic disease. According to the Cleveland Clinic, “Roughly 10 – 20 percent of those diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease are under age 50, and about half of those are diagnosed before age 40.” If this reality were to become as prevalent as the myth, there would be more people willing to participate in studies. Or more who wish to learn about the phases and process of research trials. Here’s hoping that a cure becomes reality. Maybe it’ll even happen before I’m old enough to be a […]
July 27, 2011
Studies show that meditation can significantly reduce the severity of Parkinson’s symptoms. I’ve been trying to incorporate more mediation into my day, bring my mind to a place of stillness. The amusement park is not where I’d have started. Then again… There I was, waiting in line for the Yankee Cannon Ball — the vintage, must-ride, 1930s wooden roller coaster at Canobie Lake Park. A teen girl from the trio in front of me commented on a dog across the way. “I love animals,” she told me. “All animals.” She crossed her arms, “except sharks. I do not like sharks.” She shuddered. I nodded as her friend spoke up. “It’s whales I don’t like. They’re gonna take over the world. Seriously.” “That’s why I’m moving to Arizona,” said the third. “Billy and I have it all planned out. We wanna go where there’s no one else around. And no one […]
July 20, 2011
Guest blog by: Jillian McKee Knowing what cancer does to the human body is one thing, regardless of the area of the body it’s affecting. It is, however, impossible to know how cancer will affect an individual’s mind and spirit. Because of this, it is so important for the cancer patient to determine the best path in maintaining a healthy emotional and spiritual life while in treatment. Supportive family and friends are essential but not enough to do this. The patient needs to do if for himself or herself. Yoga is one option that can help. Cancer is not just a diagnosis but also a lifestyle adjustment. Yoga is one option for the cancer patient to incorporate into that new lifestyle. It renews not just the body, but mind and spirit as well. Yoga is most certainly not a substitute for medical care but can make the treatments a bit […]