The Dance North Scotland-run sessions at Forres Town Hall on Wednesdays from 1.30-3.15pm are running until June 26
PEOPLE living with Parkinson’s, their carers and families are being invited to free exercise classes led by trained dancers with live musical accompaniment.
The Dance North Scotland-run sessions at Forres Town Hall on Wednesdays from 1.30-3.15pm are running until June 26.
Participation lead, Ruth Kent, confirmed they follow a successful pilot at Williamson Hall, Elgin, last August to October.
She said: "Having been involved in Dance for Parkinson's since 2017, I've seen what a huge difference the classes can make to people living with Parkinson's, a condition which can be isolating and debilitating.
"Something magical happens when we concentrate on being creative! There is real joy in dancing together. Enjoying the music and good company and the beneficial effects can last all week."
The classes start out seated and finish with a tea break. Movement is designed to warm the body gently and encourage a sense of flow, helped by music.
Participants and teachers learn new routines and build skills collectively, supporting each other.
"It’s a warm, laughter-filled session where mistakes are celebrated and incorporated," said Ruth. "The teaching is adaptable to different need and the way the participants feel."
Benefits include improved mobility, gait and balance. The classes are open to all, with no experience required.
The new Dance for Parkinson’s classes are supported by the Newbold Legacy Trust (NLT), supporting ,local voluntary and community groups.
Trustee Anne Skene is pleased to support the classes.
She said: "There is a need for an accessible, local class for people with Parkinson’s and their supporters and carers. The number of people affected by Parkinson’s continues to rise and it is known that being physically active is vital for living well with it.
"The NLT grant covers the staff and venue costs to run three sessions of classes over one year."
See https://www.dancenorth.scot/do/dfp/ for more information.
