Hello Phil:
My exercise regimen includes T'ai Chi at the gym, twice
a week. In between, I stretch in the morning and evening.
I experience a period of rigidity or stiffness (usually about
2 hrs into my second (11 a.m.) and third (4 p.m.) doses of
50/200CR). Lately, it typically lasts for 20-30 minutes.
I have shortened this time and reduced the uncomfortable
feeling of extreme tension in my arms and right leg, by sitting
at my desk and moving my arms to T'ai Chi movements. In
four to five minutes I start to feel better and the muscle
tension loosens. Then, I stand and stretch a little.
This process has reduced the length of time and the
amount of tightness in my arms and leg from a previous high
of 45 minutes to around 20 minutes. During the 20 minutes I
am less uncomfortable and able to work.
I have previously posted concerning T'ai Chi: see below . .
From: Stephan Schwartz
To: SMTP("[log in to unmask]")
Date: 10/28/97 12:12pm
Subject: Martial arts and PD. -Reply
David Moreland asked:
>>> David Moreland <[log in to unmask]> 10/27/97
09:29pm >>>
>>>Has anyone on this list used any martial arts techniques
to provide at least little snippets of relief for PD
symptoms?<<<
Hello David:
T'ai Chi is an ancient Taoist style of self defense
attributed to Chang San-feng a 14th century priest. Modern
T'ai Chi emphasizes grace as a control over impulse.
T'ai Chi taught today derives from a foundation of martial
arts. The exercises reinforce balance, flexibility and
patience. No special equipment or partner is required.
Through a series of exercises, "postures," one performs
continuous, smooth, gentle movements with muscles
relaxed.
T'ai Chi is said to strengthen the motor skills that are
impacted by PD.
Over the past four years I have practiced T'ai Chi.
Doctors and patients have observed that PD symptoms
abate during sleep, also with stress reduction and even
through concentrated efforts of personal willpower. T'ai Chi
gives me the mechanisms to relax as if in a dream state, no
stress and therefore, no tremor.
Concentration is required to practice T'ai Chi postures.
This same concentration helps me build my will power as if
meditating. T'ai Chi, for me, is meditation with motion.
My teacher gives T'ai Chi classes at the local geriatric
home. Staff there report a reduction in falls among the
patients since taking the class, along with an improved
mental attitude. Patients report feeling better and more
individual will power to deal with their aches and pains.
A videotape was available from the T'ai Chi Society of
Canada, 1376 Bathurst Street, Toronto, Ontario M5R 3J1. I
do not know if they still sell it.
-end-
The Parkinson's Disease Foundation in NY recommends
T'ai Chi or Yoga to promote the stretching of the body's
extensor muscles (which open joints) and flexor muscles
(which close joints) that will aid to reduce rigidity and
stiffness and promote flexibility. PDF has an exercise
hotline: 1-800-457-6676.
Happy trails!
Stephan 53/7
