Yoga

Yoga sessions are available to people with Parkinson's and their partners. There are two sessions that run, one is a seated yoga class and the other is for those who feel comfortable sitting or lying down on a mat. The experienced, certified yoga teacher has also completed the Parkinson's UK training for physical activity providers.You will need to bring water and wear loose/flexible clothes.

Mats and equipment will be provided but please bring your own if you have it. Each session will be charged at £9.00 per member. 

Places will be limited, so we ask you to book, members with Parkinson's will be given priority but if there is space partners/carers will be welcome.

The class will start with meditation and gentle breath work. We will gently stretch out and bring movement to the body to help improve flexibility, mobility and co-ordination. We will work on arms and hand movements as well as the legs and feet. Exercises will also be offered to help improve posture in the chair and bring movement to the spine where possible, including gentle side bends and rotations. Straps and blocks will also be provided. All poses and exercises can be modified and adapted to each individual.

Yoga
Yoga is an ancient Hindu spiritual practice that originated in India more than 5000 years ago. It utilises specific body postures, simple meditation and breathing techniques to aid relaxation and wellness.

The benefits of yoga are well recognised and it is practised worldwide. It can easily be adapted for people who have neurological conditions like Parkinson’s. The body postures or ‘poses’ (which often have names such as cow pose, downward dog and mountain pose) are used as exercises that focus on strength and flexibility while you breathe in a specific way.

How can it help with Parkinson’s symptoms?

Lots of research is being done into how yoga may help with the physical and non-physical symptoms of Parkinson’s. So far we know that yoga can help lessen slowness and stiffness, improve balance and flexibility (especially in hips and ankles), and increase muscle strength and power. It can also relax blood pressure, help control weight gain, and increase breathing strength and lung capacity.

Many people also report having better mood and sleep, while going to group classes is a way of meeting others and being more socially active.