Kirk Gibson Foundation Launches FREE Program – Yoga Moves Parkinson’s

Image Courtesy of Kirk Gibson Foundation for Parkinson’s Disease

THE KIRK GIBSON FOUNDATION FOR PARKINSON’S OFFERS FREE ADAPTIVE YOGA CLASSES THROUGH YOGA MOVES ANY BODY.

Yoga Moves Parkinson’s Classes Wednesdays Beginning March 6

The Kirk Gibson Foundation for Parkinson’s is pleased to announce that Yoga Moves MS, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing adaptive yoga classes, will be launching a new program specifically designed for individuals with Parkinson’s Disease. The program, called “Yoga Moves Parkinson’s”, starts March 6, and aims to help participants cope with the symptoms of Parkinson’s through the practice of yoga and mindfulness principles. The program will be free for participants and is made possible through a generous grant from the Kirk Gibson Foundation for Parkinson’s. The Kirk Gibson Foundation for Parkinson’s has been instrumental in bringing this program to fruition and is committed to improving the lives of individuals with Parkinson’s by making exercise and movement programs like this available to people impacted by Parkinson’s.

The foundation was formed by former professional baseball player and manager, Kirk Gibson,

after his diagnosis with Parkinson’s disease in 2015.  Gibson spent most of his career with the Detroit Tigers, but also played for the Los Angeles Dodgers, Kansas City Royals and Pittsburgh Pirates.  Gibson is currently the color commentator for the Detroit Tigers, special assistant to the Tigers, and spends his time supporting his mission and vision of spreading awareness for Parkinson’s and providing inspiration and hope to others who are living with Parkinson’s.

Starting on March 6, 2024,

Yoga Moves will host Yoga Moves Parkinson’s weekly classes that are open to individuals of all abilities. The classes will take place every Wednesday from 11:00 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. at Congregation Shaarey Zedek, located at 27375 Bell Road in Southfield, MI.

Participants in Yoga Moves Parkinson’s will have the opportunity to learn from specially trained instructors who understand the unique needs and challenges faced by individuals with Parkinson’s. The classes will focus on improving breathing, balance, strength, flexibility, mood, and overall well-being. By incorporating mindfulness principles, participants will also learn techniques to calm their nervous system and reduce stress.

One of the key benefits of Yoga Moves Parkinson’s is the small group setting,

which provides a safe and supportive environment for participants to practice yoga at their own pace. Research has shown that individuals with Parkinson’s who participate in small group yoga classes experience less stress and stiffness, improved posture, strength, balance, and sleep, as well as increased social support and a greater sense of well-being.

Yoga mats will be supplied for participants, and individuals who use mobility aids are encouraged to bring them to class.

To reserve a spot in the Yoga Moves Parkinson’s program or for more information, please call 248-417-5985 or visit: www.YogaMovesMS.org

To learn more about the Kirk Gibson’s Foundation for Parkinson’s, please visit, www.KirkGibsonFoundation.org

About Yoga Moves MS:

Yoga Moves MS is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life of individuals with neuromuscular conditions including Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson’s Disease, SCI, and stroke by providing adaptive yoga classes with an empowering, safe, and supportive community. Holistic health, breathing, and mindfulness practices are integrated into all Adaptive Yoga Moves Any Body classes. To learn more visit www.yogamovesms.org.

About the Kirk Gibson Foundation for Parkinson’s:

The Kirk Gibson Foundation was created in 1996 to provide college scholarships to both athletes and non- athletes at Waterford Kettering and Clarkston High Schools, where Kirk’s parents, Robert and Barbara, taught for many years. After being diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease in 2015, he expanded the mission of the Foundation to improve the quality of life of those living with Parkinson’s through the development and delivery of activity-based programs. Kirk’s vision is to provide inspiration, hope, and help to those living with Parkinson’s disease and their loved ones. Since that expansion, the Foundation has raised more than $3 million towards research grants and programs to support the Parkinson’s community.

Additionally, the Foundation wants to create awareness and understanding about Parkinson’s disease. Too many individuals are in denial about the disease or fear a stigma associated with Parkinson’s and delay seeking medical help. Early diagnosis and treatment can provide years that are virtually symptom-free. It’s imperative to know that life expectancy is about the same as for people without the disease. While life will change with a Parkinson’s diagnosis, many symptoms can be managed with proper medication and movement therapies, and patients can still live an active and enjoyable life. The Foundation will continue to fund and grow outreach programs as well as improve awareness through hosting special events and by increasing fundraising activities.  For more information, please visit www.KirkGibsonFoundation.org