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For people with Parkinson’s, some of the symptoms can make it harder to engage in daily activities others take for granted, like getting dressed and doing household chores. You may also worry about your employment and finances, which can increase stress and anxiety. If your mood starts to decline, it can be even hard to do the activities you enjoy.
We encourage you to make time for the activities you enjoy with the people you love, and take actions that enhance your overall sense of well-being: body, mind, and spirit. Not only will your mood improve, but engaging in enjoyable activities also helps to stimulate your brain.
Mindfulness: it’s exercise for your brain
If exercise is one of the cheapest, most effective medicines for slowing down the progression of Parkinson’s symptoms, then mindfulness meditation is exercise for the brain.
Studies have shown that meditation can help improve anxiety, stress, fatigue and sleep disturbance by lowering heart rate and levels of cortisol (a hormone released during stress) while increasing sensations of relaxation and well-being. It also helps the mind shed unhealthy thought patterns and builds mental muscle that can make it easier to cope with the unpredictability of life with PD. And, like regular physical activity, mindfulness meditation can serve as the cornerstone for self-care that people with PD can use to manage their symptoms.
You can learn more about the health benefits of mindfulness meditation, sign up for weekly classes, and find other free resources to get started with our Mindfulness articles.
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Cognitive Decline and Parkinson’s
Cognitive decline is a symptom of Parkinson’s disease that’s gaining more…
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Depression and Anxiety in Parkinson’s
Joel Mack, MD discusses depression and anxiety in Parkinson’s and ways…
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Beginning a Mindfulness Practice
Stress is common in Parkinson’s. Mindfulness practice has been shown to…
Making time for self-care
Self care means exactly what it sounds like: taking time to take care of yourself! Getting regular exercise, eating a healthy diet, and engaging in enjoyable hobbies are all forms of self care because of their known benefits to your mood. Self care also includes getting adequate sleep and reducing stress. For people with Parkinson’s, sleep problems and high levels of stress are commonly reported but too often neglected.
In our Self Care section, we explore activities that can help you manage stress, improve sleep and boost your mood. These activities are helpful for care partners, too!
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Brian Grant Foundation Honors Parkinson’s Awareness Month with Impactful Events
From global advocacy to community building, BGF amplifies awareness and empowers…
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Spring – Seasonal Strategies for People with Parkinson’s Disease
By Theresa Harczo, RN, Providence Brain and Spine Center, Portland, OR…
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Depression, Anxiety, and Apathy: What’s the Difference?
Many people with Parkinson’s experience depression, anxiety, or apathy. Did you…
Social support & creating your community
Social connections help us combat loneliness and depression—they also help stimulate your brain! Many people with Parkinson’s report that having others to share their experiences with has helped them overcome challenges and live fuller lives.
Our Community page can help provide encouragement and resources for building a community you can lean on. It’s also a great place to hear from others living with Parkinson’s and find comfort and inspiration in those shared experiences. You are not alone in this journey—your family members, friends, colleagues, healthcare providers, and other people in the Parkinson’s community (us included!) are here with you.
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Brian Grant Foundation Honors Parkinson’s Awareness Month with Impactful Events
From global advocacy to community building, BGF amplifies awareness and empowers…
-
Spring – Seasonal Strategies for People with Parkinson’s Disease
By Theresa Harczo, RN, Providence Brain and Spine Center, Portland, OR…
