Our intuition is what keeps us stable and on an even keel. Intuition is what we think is right, for the moment. It is that gut feeling or sense of how to react to the immediate task, threat, or situation.

When Parkinson’s compromises our intuition, we second-guess ourselves and become unsure of our senses. Parkinson’s has a way of interfering with our perception, our emotional reactions, and our ability to interact with others. When it gets in the way of our senses it can cloud judgment, cause anxiety, show signs of paranoia, and be a threat to our overall cognition.

In the past year, I am saddened to report that I have seen Parkinson’s take a toll on several friends. In some friend’s cases, I have seen personalities change, mood swings, and confusion.

Watching people who we care about, whether they have Parkinson’s or not, is never easy. The best that we can do is to be there for them and support them as best we can, as a good listener and a trustworthy and dependable resource.

Here are a few suggestions to try to override anxiety and potential cognitive issues. These may bring some calm and enjoyment. These are a few activities that I hope may help you:

Keep active!Exercise!

Play games that make you think fast. Try video games (Nintendo Wii, Xbox) or brain games like, Lumosity.

Dance, sing, or try playing an instrument. You don’t have be a virtuoso.

Stretch.Keep limber in body and mind.

Try meditation. Try Yoga. Keep an open-mind to getting better!

Let’s have a great New Year together!

Karl