Parkinson’s, Yoga Therapy and the Importance of Connection

Parkinson’s is often thought of as a condition that causes tremor, but its effects reach far beyond movement alone. It is a progressive neurological condition caused by the loss of dopamine-producing cells in the brain, affecting not only movement but also mood, sleep, cognition, digestion and overall quality of life. For some people, one of the earliest signs can be a reduced sense of smell, years before any noticeable changes in movement occur. Others may first experience constipation, anxiety, disturbed sleep or subtle changes in handwriting or facial expression. Every person’s experience is unique, which is why no two people living with Parkinson’s will present in exactly the same way.

As the condition progresses, people may experience slowness of movement, stiffness, balance difficulties, freezing episodes, fatigue and changes in speech or posture. Symptoms can fluctuate significantly throughout the day, often influenced by medication timing, stress, sleep and energy levels. This unpredictability can gradually affect confidence, with many people becoming hesitant to move in case they lose balance or find themselves unable to continue. It is often this loss of confidence, rather than the physical symptoms alone, that has the greatest impact on independence and wellbeing.

Scientific evidence continues to demonstrate that regular physical activity is one of the most important non-pharmacological approaches for supporting people living with Parkinson’s. Exercise has been shown to improve mobility, balance, strength, cardiovascular health and overall quality of life, while also helping to reduce anxiety and depression. Although exercise cannot stop the progression of Parkinson’s, it can help people maintain function, confidence and participation in everyday life for longer.

Yoga Therapy offers a unique contribution within this wider picture of care. Rather than focusing solely on exercise, Yoga Therapy considers the whole person and adapts movement, breathing practices and relaxation techniques to meet each individual where they are on that particular day. This is especially important in Parkinson’s, where symptoms can change from hour to hour. A Yoga Therapy informed approach acknowledges these fluctuations, allowing participants to modify practices according to their medication cycle, energy levels, confidence and movement capacity. The aim is not to achieve perfect postures but to create an environment where movement feels safe, achievable and meaningful.

Research suggests that yoga may improve balance, flexibility, functional mobility and emotional wellbeing in people living with Parkinson’s. Equally important are the benefits that are harder to measure. Learning to breathe more slowly during moments of anxiety, becoming more aware of posture and movement, and rebuilding trust in the body’s capabilities can all contribute to a greater sense of confidence and self-efficacy. These therapeutic tools extend beyond the class itself and can become practical strategies that people use in everyday life.

One simple practice that many people can explore at home is diaphragmatic breathing. Sitting comfortably with both feet supported, place one hand on your chest and the other on your abdomen. Allow your breath to gently expand into the lower hand as you inhale through the nose, then exhale slowly and comfortably. There is no need to force the breath; simply allowing it to become slower and more relaxed for a few minutes can help reduce feelings of stress and create a greater sense of calm.

While movement is important, the value of human connection should never be underestimated. Group participation provides opportunities to meet others who understand the realities of living with Parkinson’s, reducing isolation and creating a sense of belonging. Sharing experiences, celebrating small achievements and supporting one another through difficult days often becomes just as valuable as the movement itself. Feeling seen, heard and understood can have a profound effect on emotional wellbeing and motivation to remain active. This sense of connection is one of the reasons community-based programmes can have such a meaningful impact, offering not only movement but also friendship, encouragement and hope.

Supporting someone living with Parkinson’s often begins with recognising that not all symptoms are visible. A person may appear physically well while experiencing overwhelming fatigue, anxiety, pain or cognitive changes. Giving someone time to move, listening without judgement, encouraging independence where appropriate and understanding that symptoms can fluctuate from day to day are all simple but meaningful ways to offer support. Compassion, patience and a willingness to adapt together can make an enormous difference to someone’s confidence and quality of life.

There is no single intervention that meets every need of someone living with Parkinson’s. The strongest outcomes are often achieved when healthcare professionals, therapists, community organisations, family members and people living with Parkinson’s work together. Parkinson’s nurses, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, speech and language therapists all have important roles to play in supporting people to live well with the condition. Yoga Therapy is not intended to replace these services but to complement them, offering an additional pathway that supports movement, nervous system regulation, confidence and overall wellbeing.

If you notice persistent symptoms such as tremor, slowness of movement, stiffness, changes in balance, a reduced sense of smell or other concerns, it is important to speak with your GP or healthcare professional. Early assessment can help ensure appropriate investigations, treatment and support are put in place.

If you or someone you love is living with Parkinson’s, remember that you do not have to navigate the journey alone. Parkinson’s UK offers evidence-based information, practical advice, local support groups and a dedicated helpline for people living with Parkinson’s and those who care for them. Locally, the Andover Parkinson’s Café meets on the first Wednesday of every month at Andover Methodist Church from 10:00am until 12:00pm. It provides a warm and welcoming space to meet others, share experiences, hear from guest speakers and discover the support available within the local community. Whether you have recently been diagnosed, have been living with Parkinson’s for many years, or are supporting a loved one, reaching out and connecting with others can be one of the most important steps you take.

I’m delighted to be working with Parkinson’s UK to offer a free Chair Therapy taster session on 16 September at 1:45pm at Andover Community Church. The session will have been shaped by conversations with people living with Parkinson’s and will provide an opportunity to explore how therapeutic movement, breath and relaxation can support wellbeing, confidence and connection. This taster is an initial step, with any future sessions informed by participant feedback and further discussion about what would be most valuable for the local Parkinson’s community.

Registration via Parkinson’s UK is required to attend.

At its heart, Yoga Therapy is about meeting people where they are. It recognises that every person brings different experiences, challenges and strengths, and that meaningful movement begins not with what the body used to do, but with what it is capable of today. When people feel listened to, supported and empowered, movement becomes more than exercise; it becomes a way of reconnecting with themselves, with others and with the possibility of living well alongside Parkinson’s.

Naomi Hurst (she/her)