After a Parkinson’s diagnosis, life can become a flood of “what ifs” and “can’ts”. While it is true that life changes with illness, there are still many things we can doincluding exercise, mindfulness practice and healthy eating.
Many ring in the new year promising to exercise more and eat healthy. It may sound cliché, but for those of us with Parkinson’s disease, a healthy lifestyle can improve our quality of life and help us manage symptoms and slow their progression.
If you have Parkinson’s disease, I’ve compiled a list of activities that you might find helpful. Remember that before starting an exercise program or changing your diet, be sure to consult your medical team. Keep your goals simple and attainable. Tackle one thing at a time. Be patient with yourself. Include your family – a healthy lifestyle is for everyone!
Exercise
Do something for your health every day. Simple activities and one-minute meditations are a great way to start. There are workouts for all abilities and fitness levels, from chair workouts to high-intensity interval training.
Physical activities can include a walk or tossing a ball from one hand to the other while standing or sitting. Try adding cognitive exercises to your daily regimen. For example, throw the ball and spell your name.
You can also add resistance training with very light weights or bands. Water bottles or cans of soup can serve as dumbbells. A tea towel squeezed between your hands can also be used. Be creative.
A few things to keep in mind: Choose something that matches your fitness level and that you enjoy, and try new activities. If you can exercise with friends, a spouse, or others with Parkinson’s disease, they can hold you accountable and help you persevere. It’s a win for everyone!
the Davis Phinney Foundation for Parkinson’s Disease and the Brian Grant Foundation offer additional resources and guidance.
mindfulness
Researchers find that mindfulness is helpful in managing Parkinson’s disease. It can relieve stress and anxiety and improve your mood. Some helpful tools are apps, books, soft music, and breathing techniques.
Healthy eating
Drink enough water to stay hydrated and maintain well balanced diet can be difficult. Finding ways to simplify cooking can make it easier and less stressful.
Start with a few simple recipes which contain few ingredients but are full of vitamins. Use pre-cut meats and vegetables as a shortcut.
Try new things and mix them up. Hard-boiled eggs or smoothies can be a healthy meal any time of the day. It’s breakfast for dinner!
Another option is meal delivery services, which conveniently send ingredients for multiple meals to you. You can adapt the meals to your diet and choose the number of meals you want.
Keep it simple and you can succeed. It is possible to lead a healthy life with Parkinson’s disease. Visit the Parkinson’s News Today forums and let us know how you are choosing to be healthy in 2022.
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To note: News about Parkinson’s disease today is strictly a disease news and information site. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or processing. This content is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis or processing. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of anything you read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of News about Parkinson’s disease today or its parent company, BioNews, and aim to spark discussion about issues relating to Parkinson’s disease.
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