Spring – Seasonal Strategies for People with Parkinson’s Disease

By Theresa Harczo, RN, Providence Brain and Spine Center, Portland, OR

Living in Oregon means living through four distinct seasons every year. Seasonal changes in temperature, sunlight, and activity can affect people with Parkinson’s in unique ways. Read on for tips to manage these changes and make the most of the spring months. 

• NEW BEGINNINGS are brought to us in the Spring
  • Daylight savings time began on Sunday, March 9^th which offers more light into our day ¹ 
  • Sunlight increases serotonin production which helps regulate mood and stabilize emotions ² 
  • Spring entices us to venture outdoors to observe nature as it wakens from dormancy into buds that later form flowers and new leaves unfold to take shape and grow into a canopy. ³ 
• THE OLD FARMERS ALMANAC says this about Spring 2025 ⁴ 
  • In the Northern Hemisphere, spring begins March 20^th at 2:01am Pacific Standard Time  
  • If you live in the northwest corner of the US, the Almanac calls for fairly mild temperatures, so don’t put away your warm clothing quite yet. We may be in for more chilly and damp days.  
• EXERCISE becomes more enticing ⁵ 
  • If the winter months have slowed you down and you want to get into physical activities have your provider refer you to a physical therapist who can give you specific exercises that are right for you.  
  • If you are already familiar with what exercises work for you, start back at a lower intensity and slowly increase the distance, time, and weight vs jumping in where you left off.  
  • If the idea of formal exercise is unappealing, consider a light hike with friends, work in your yard, take up yoga or tai chi, or play with children.  
• FOOD available in Spring months ⁶ 
  • Transitioning from hearty options during the winter, Spring brings fresh herbs, berries, and vegetables 
  • Purchase locally grown seasonal foods that are more nutritious and full of flavor. 
  • Look for sweet cherries for their antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. Asparagus is rich in nutrients and fiber. Garden peas are a great source of plant-based protein. Strawberries bring sweetness to your plate and new research has found they can help improve cognition! 

Sources

         1  Daylight Saving Time 2025 in the United States 

         2  The Relationship Between Sunshine, Serotonin, Vitamin D, and Depression – 

         3 Signs of Spring – Pittsburgh Botanic Garden 

         4  Spring Weather Forecast 2025 – Farmers’ Almanac  

         5  Tips for Daily Living: Preparing for Spring with Parkinson’s Disease | Parkinson’s Foundation 

         6 The 8 Healthiest Foods to Eat This Spring  – FitOn