It’s summertime, and at long last, I’ve found a physical therapist who understands Parkinson’s disease. Another first for me. While It’s work, I accept and appreciate the challenge. The warm weather this time of year is beneficial in many ways, as is having proper guidance for the first time in nearly five years. 
It’s been a lifelong journey discovering my workout routine. Using an exercise ball and different zoom videos has helped me stay active. I’m always interested in meeting new physical therapists. Each has their style or approach to various problem areas.
When I discover a new stretch or routine that works well. I do my best to remember it and add it to the long list of ‘hacks' I use in the evenings when my dopamine levels aren’t playing nicely. Evenings I spend with distorting leg cramps, twisting my tendons tighter than wrung-out dish rags. On those nights, I reflect on the day’s water intake. Yes, and my exercise ball becomes my best friend. At least until my meds kick in and allow me to sleep. Sometimes…
We all battle good and bad hours. It’s during those tough times that we have to hold on and take note of what we’re doing, especially when it comes to diet and exercise.
Kristine Meldrum’s book "How to Build a PD Exercise Cocktail Plan: A Professional's Companion Guidebook,” explains the need to find a specific routine for you. No one can do it for you. I’ll admit - I haven’t read the book yet, but I’ve seen Kristine speak in webinars and interviews with Karl Robb and Robert Cochrane. Her message is clear. Her heartfelt story about starting small and building slowly gave me hope and inspiration. Reminding me that I don’t have to be an athlete to be athletic. Yes, and disability doesn't mean giving up on setting new goals or reinventing a new exercise plan.
Yes, and it is so very human to adapt. To change and grow. This is how Joseph Campbell’s Hero’s Journey has helped me over the years more times than I can count. Through cross-country moves. Surgeries and recoveries. Skills lost and found. Homes and life plans rewound. Joe was the one who always taught me to stay open-minded and go with the flow.
The absolute most important time to go with the flow is when you’re listening to your body. You must go slow and listen to what your body is telling you. Whether or not you have a therapist's help, you must be our own best advocate by first being in tune with how our bodies react. And don’t be afraid to talk to your therapist - or change therapists if you meet one who isn’t experienced with your needs.
Without a strict diet, our medication cannot help our bodies function properly. Finding the balance is key. I am very happy to be back in physical therapy. At last, I don’t have to play the role of the solitary practitioner in charge of my own DIY physical therapy routine. Instinct and paying attention to some very talented therapists got me through, but having the right support makes all the difference.
We can’t always control what our bodies are going to do. Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and try something new. Improv creativity and play can be incorporated into every aspect of our lives. After all, that’s why we call ourselves Yes, And…eXercise!
I also want to take a moment to remember and honor Dave Parker. Sadly, he passed away before his induction date into the Baseball Hall of Fame. My heart goes out to his family.
Our plans for the Legendary Parkinson’s Pickle to create an anthology with members of the Dave Parker 39 Foundation are proceeding with our silent Auction live and running until July 28th. Please check out the list of amazing items, including a signed baseball by Dave Parker himself. A boxing ring bell signed by Mahamid Alie and the autographed guitar Michael J. Fox played in Back to The Future. Making this a must-see event for all. Check out the link here: https://www.yesandexercise.org/sandlot
Have a great summer everyone!
