Parkinson's: GOOD THOUGHTS FIGHT PD
The Power of "Guided Imagery"
BY:ERIC FEIL
Tremors, muscle stiffness, weakness, fatigue and difficulties with moving and balance plague many people with Parkinson’s Disease. Now some relief may be as close as the nearest CD player—as long as the patient is willing and able to let her mind help her body.
“Relaxation alone reduces some of the symptoms,” says psychotherapist Belleruth Naparstek, LISW, a pioneer in the “guided imagery” relaxation technique, which focuses mental energies on combating physical problems. Her new CD, Health Journeys®: A Meditation to Help with Parkinson’s Disease, is a mix of words and music that employ her techniques specifically to Parkinson’s patients.
“This CD provides relaxation,” Naparstek says, “but is also designed to help regulate mood, encourage balance and good posture, counter fatigue, increase muscle control and alleviate depression.”
Just one in a series of guided imagery-based books, including one aimed at focusing on general wellness (which makes it great for caregivers), this technique and process should not be considered a cure for PD. “But,” says Ruth Hagesteun, RN, MA, director of Field Services for the National Parkinson Foundation, “focusing through guided imagery can be a helpful way to deal with many symptoms, as can other types of meditation, journaling and yoga. Stress management is incredibly important for people with Parkinson’s,” she adds. “And it’s also vital for caregivers. Living with Parkinson’s every day is not easy, and techniques for reducing stress for patients and caregivers, even for a short period of time, are very valuable.”
Health Journeys®: A Meditation to Help with Parkinson’s Disease is available for $17.98 at amazon.com and healthjourneys.com (click on Shop, then on Healing Illness, then on Parkinson’s Disease).