As we stand on the brink of a new year, is only human to want to find comfort in the past. However, we must remember that life is a constant cycle of seasons. If we want to be happy, we must learn to embrace the changes having PD brings into our lives such as a new found creativity. One must first learn to let go of things that hold us back like anger, trepidation, and fear in order to move forward. The New Year is our opportunity to shine and try new things like new therapies, treatments, and even renew our strength by making peace with our illness.
We now have 365 new pages to rewrite our history with PD. Will we throw in the towel or will we unveil victory? It is all up to us.
Tips to a great 2018.
Be good to yourself. No matter how you feel inside be present in the moment. Always acknowledge your feelings. Don’t try to ignore them, hide from them, or give in to them. You are no good to anyone if you are over run with emotions. The best way to keep emotions in check is getting a good sleep even if you go to bed till 3 a.m. as I often do. Rearrange your schedule, ask loved ones not to disturb you, disconnect your electronic devices, turn off phone, get dark curtains, and tell yourself this is your time. Prioritize yourself. I have found that if I allow myself to sleep, I feel almost normal and can tackle things much more efficiently and effectively.
(art by Ross Webb)
Make time for what makes you happy. Allow yourself time to pursue new and old dreams making reasonable short and long term goals. This means spending time helping others by being a mentor, a shoulder to lean on, a caregiver, and an advocate. Always wanted to paint, write, play an instrument, change careers, travel, learn a new language, or simply spend more time with family and friends? Be bold and try doing it this year. I have decided to go back to an old passion of mine- singing. When I began having dysphonia (vocal cord dystonia), I was saddened and gave up doing something that I loved. Although, I no longer can reach high notes, I have discovered a range I never thought possible. This is sure to make life interesting and perhaps even improve my hypohonia by strengthening my oral-pharyngeal muscles.
Find a way to move and stay active. It’s a lot easier to exercise routinely when you have a friend by your side. The best way to maintain an exercise routine is finding something you love and can fit your physical needs. Whether it be tango dancing, swimming, boxing, or bicycle riding, all of these activities are sure to not only improve your physical and emotional disposition. But, don’t neglect your brains need to be exercised as well. By participating in social gatherings and learning new things as I mentioned above you will improve your cognitive status. I love doing all sorts of puzzles. Find things to challenge you even if it’s eating with your eyes closed to discover the texture of foods or taking a different path on your drive home or customary walk. 
Self- love is the underlying message which can only be achieved by boldly embracing our weaknesses and highlighting our strengths, helping others and being kind to others, and opening ourselves to new possibilities. Never forgetting to always smile and be thankful for the little things.
Happy New Year 2018!
xoxo
Parkinson’s Diva
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all rights reserved by Maria De Leon MD
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