Dear WinkWorld Readers,
If you are a reader of WinkWorld, you know a majority of my work relates to languages and literacies with a heavy dose of Prairie Pedagogy in the last 10 to 15 years. But I always try to write about what interests me. Lately, I have been more interested in Slide and Glide or Loud and Proud. We made up those terms to describe the exercises which are very much the antithesis of what my body wants to do naturally.
As some of you know, I have a hereditary condition called Essential Tremors. I have known for years that I would get it. It does not change my life much. However, this winter I was also diagnosed with Parkinson’s. At that time, my movements had become very stiff, slow, and rigid. Then I learned about these very strange and even funky exercises which are designed primarily for Parkinson’s patients. I absolutely love doing them, and I am honestly somewhat of a convert.
I have two vices: reading and walking.
However this winter, I was not able to get out to walk. I felt like a caged lion. Now, I am up to 2 miles again. I find these exercises amazingly effective. If only one other person benefits from this post, it is worth it for me.
In this WinkWorld, I want to share some of what I have learned. I will primarily focus on the exercise websites that have been beneficial for me. So far, I have learned that I have much to learn about all of this. I know I am just at the beginning of my learning curve.
The reason I use the terms, Slide and Glide or Loud and Proud is because I do not want to infringe on any other websites’ trademark name. All of these exercises focus on large movements, not small; and fast movements, not slow; and smooth movements, not rigid; and loud voice exercises, not quiet; The exercises make my body do the opposite of what it wants to do.
Before you glance at these exercises, you might want to read this very short story from my last post on WinkWorld.
Exercise Websites
Of course, the gold standard for all information about Parkinson’s is Michael J. Fox.
Another very good site which I use is….
Move and Shout: Power for Parkinson’s
A third site which I often use comes from Power for Parkinson’s. I find it very helpful.
Aerobic Exercises for Parkinson’s
A fourth site that I use is Aerobic Exercises for Parkinson’s.
Hand Exercises for Parkinson’s
A fifth site I use is specifically for hands, which become very rigid with Parkinson’s.
A final interesting concept I learned is the VILIM ball. It is an electronic ball that you hold in your hand to reduce the tremors. I have two, and I love them. I have also heard about vibrating wrist bracelets.
Dear WinkWorld Readers, I do not plan to write more about Parkinson’s. I will continue to write about what is lying around on my desk and on my computer desktop.
How do I do WinkWorld if I have Parkinson’s? Very slowly, and with the help of a dictation program and two friends: Susan Henley Spreitzer and Annie Hlavka. Thank you to both of them. How much longer can I publish WinkWorld? I don’t know.
at 6:22 pm
Joan,
What a wonderful set of resources. I know folks will find them useful. You are amazing and now onward to 100 😍 I love that story. 💙🙏XOXO Sharon
at 9:57 pm
Sadly, you know way more about all of this and I do it. Stay strong. xo
at 11:37 am
Oh, Mom!!! You are such a warrior, an inspiration, and fierce. However did I get lucky enough to be your daughter? Brava yo you for this amazing piece, your courage, and even in this, your dedication to sharing information to help others.
You are my heroine!!!
Love you oooooodles,
Dawnie F.
at 1:24 pm
#proudmama is speechless and humbled by your words.
Love you!!!!
at 11:21 pm
I’m glad to hear you’re back to walking and finding new ways to stretch and move. I like what Dawn says… you’re still teaching and sharing good resources, but now in the direction of Parkinson’s awareness. You’re an inspiration, always.
at 11:11 pm
Thanks sweetie.
I always love to hear from you, and I love your work at Cal State.
Love you! Joan
at 11:28 pm
You’ve got me in your corner, rooting for you from the U!
at 11:09 pm
Dear Brock,
Sorry I am late. Always great to be in connection with you. I know you have got my back, always.
Love, Joan
at 11:48 pm
My dear, dear friend, You will not walk alone on this new journey. I will continue to hold your hand whenever you need me. Thank you for inspiring all who will read your story. BFF..Diane
at 11:21 pm
Dear Diane,
I know you will be walking with me and holding my hand as we go through this next chapter, just as we did in kindergarten.
Love you lots.
Joan
at 12:46 am
Thank you for your post and resources. You are amazing and continue to inspire others with yo”ur energy, abilities, character and attitude! Much love, my old (many years!) friend! “Nancy Yates”
at 12:47 am
Thank you for your post and resources! You are amazing and continue to inspire others with your energy, abilities, character, and attitude! Much love, my old (many years!) friend! “Nancy Yates”
at 11:18 pm
Dear Nancy,
Thank you so much for your kind responses. We have such happy memories with you, and maybe we will make new memories together in Tucson.
Love, Joan
at 1:16 am
These are the same websites and programs I recommended and used when o taught exercises classes for Parkinson’s. Exercise and big movement are key. Think big!! Delay the Disease has some good YouTube videos too!! Hugs!
at 11:09 pm
You got to think big to be big. That’s what I learned from all of those exercises. Thanks so much for all you do.
Love, Joan
at 1:57 am
Joan,
Thanks so much for the many resource pages. My nephew (56) was diagnosed with Parkinson’s last December. He has had intensive physical therapy since then and was able to play 9 holes of golf last month with his dad. We wish you continued progress with your walking. I need to pick up the pace on my walks to keep up with you! Love to you both!
at 11:08 pm
Dear Rita,
Thank you so much sorry I am late with my replies. I was having trouble with a system error. Thanks so much. Your dad was a great guy! Love, Joan
at 3:14 am
Joan, Of course your piece about this would include resources and information for others! So essentially who you are: open-hearted and a connector of people to people and info that serves them. I am happy to hear you have regained some of your mileage and look forward to hearing more prairie stories, too.
at 11:17 pm
Debra,
Thank you for your kind words and thanks for all you do.
Love, Joan
at 3:06 am
I’m at a loss for words to hear this, so for now, I will just say I love you, Joan.
at 9:02 pm
I love you, too! I am off to a great start with this new chapter of life. xo