Exploring the concept and creating the space
A holistic, person-centered approach encompasses four domains: Internal, Interpersonal, Behavioral, and External. The long description: “Healing is a holistic, transformative process of repair and recovery in mind, body, and spirit resulting in positive change, finding meaning, and movement toward self-realization of wholeness, regardless of the presence or absence of disease.”
To measure the process, one must monitor “1) changes in sensations and feelings, 2) changes in self-concepts and values, 3) changes in medical symptoms and complaints, and 4) constructions of meaning or cognitive reframing.” Some examples of the process working are reduced stress, reduced anxiety, and improved mood, along with the physical and medical evidence of healing. It is a process that takes time, and it is valuable for dopamine production to acknowledge the process and even find pleasure in the evidence that is noticed and measurable. The environment affects thoughts and feelings that can be elevated with natural views, lighting, music, and architectural design that contribute to the ability to self-manage as much as possible.
Making home a healing environment!
Some simple changes in evidence-based design include focusing on the areas you spend the most time in. Items from nature are good for your health, natural light, views of nature through windows or skylights, and scenes of nature in artwork, flowers, or house plants. Next, decorate your home with uplifting, meaningful things, like family and friends’ photographs, religious symbols, meaningful objects, and especially personal artwork. Third, reduce clutter, clean, and create a quiet space for reflection or meditation. Also consider safety, such as removing throw rugs, marking step-ups or downs, safe step ladders, etc. Fourth, use colors that are uplifting. Yellow can energize, and blue, green, and violet are calming. Lastly, create a bedroom that encourages “sleep hygiene”—very dark with low light for night commode trips, red light on clocks, no tech, and soft bedding to the touch. Keep the room cool and maybe add a weighted bedspread to help deeper sleep.
Two members in our class epitomize this process: Roy Stigers, whose numbers at his last check-up have improved instead of deteriorating, is playing 18 holes again after less than a year, and Ronnie Robson who has bounced back after numerous setbacks in the last couple of years. Both have a fantastic, quick sense of humor. All in the group improve and contribute to the community support for each other.
Have fun! Live life to the fullest!
In this type of class, there are two purposes: 1) to build muscle mass to recover lost strength and functions, and 2) to counteract the neurologic deficits that occur and prevent the progression of disease symptoms. We do this with weighted movements, education at every session, and sharing experience, strength, and support for one another, without whining! We are listed in SaddleBrooke One under “Exercise and Support.” Classes are on Mondays at noon in the Fitness Center and Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1:30 to 3 p.m. in the SaddleBrooke One Arts & Crafts Center, Room 3, next to the Gift Shop. All are welcome! We have quarterly support and educational meetings on the third Thursday: April 18, July 18, and Oct. 17.
Go to www.pmdalliance.org for Parkinson’s info and support.
Neuroplasticity coach is Vera Shury, HCH coach, 520-275-8755, [email protected]. Call for a free 15-minute coaching.