Apr 27

Teaching Yoga with Parkinson’s

A Yogi’s Journey with Parkinson’s – Volume 6

Upon sharing my Parkinson’s diagnosis with a concerned yoga student, she asked, “Are you going to give up your classes?” “Of course NOT!” was my first incredulous thought. But then I considered, “How would she (or anyone) know that, unless I tell them?” So I wanted to share…

I’M OK!

I HAVE PARKINSON’S.

I HAVE A PLAN.

AND, IT INCLUDES YOGA

(both teaching & practicing)

I love teaching yoga and do NOT plan on giving that up any time soon (nor do I anticipate any dramatic shifts in my classes). I can do EVERYTHING on the mat now, that I could do 1-year, 5-years or even 10-years ago. So, don’t expect me to “dumb down” my classes just because some guy in a white coat told me my life got more complicated. If anything you may notice an enhanced intensity in the classes (a classic example of overcompensation). Everything changes over time and I expect my yoga classes will do the same. Whether that is because of Parkinson’s, aging or my natural evolution as a teacher remains to be seen. I wholeheartedly invite you along for the journey.

Teaching yoga is not just a passion it is also my profession. As such, I do not expect any special treatment or sympathy. If my classes do not live up to the high standards attendees have come to appreciate, then I would encourage them find their yoga elsewhere. I only hope they bring an open heart and open mind into each and every class. Don’t be surprised if you get your butt kicked by the grey-haired dude with Parkinson’s.

It is not my yoga students that most concern me, but the studios and health clubs that employ me. I am lucky to work for some very good (in some cases GREAT) managers & owners. However, having been in the industry for more than a dozen years, I know how quickly a slip in the often volatile class headcount (or a managerial whim) can lead to “a change in direction”,”a new face” or “a new format”. Those changes often are mandated from “above” and I accept that as part of the adventure. I only hope for the same open-mindedness I ask of my students. Please don’t let your fears of what a yoga teacher with Parkinson’s might look like cloud your vision of what is actually going on in your yoga studio(s).

Admittedly, with the additional financial burdens that accompany my diagnosis, I need the paychecks now more than ever. But, I am not a believer in entitlement. I am more than willing to earn my worth, one class at a time.

The fact that I have Parkinson’s will not come as a major surprise to my more observant yoga students. My freak flag has been flying in the form of my right hand fluttering during class for a while now. These “resting tremors” are the only noticeable symptom. The good news is that these tremors could soon be less noticeable as my doctors and I find the right balance of medication (see Treatment blog for more details).

Parkinson’s can be brutally humbling, but it is not contagious. I am still self-conscious about the fluttering in my right hand, but hoping that sharing this information eases that insecurity. If you are looking for perfection in your yoga teacher, you were probably not a big fan of mine to begin with. I am still going to demonstrate challenging asanas (yoga postures/balances) and I will still lose my balance at times. Then, as I prescribe in class, I will “smile and try it again”. This journey is a marathon and I’m just getting started.

“There is a crack in everything. That’s how the light gets in.” – Leonard Cohen

If you are inspired, please visit 4 Ways You Can Help or simply Donate

 

DISCLAIMER: The views expressed on this site are my opinions. My words should not be taken as a substitute for qualified medical expertise. This blog is designed to chronicle my journey, share what I learn in the process, and connect with others on a similar path.