Joint Enrichment Program with Creative Wellness and the Alzheimer's Association
Receiving a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia is never easy- it’s life changing. It is normal to experience a range of emotions. Acknowledging your feelings can be an empowering first step in coping with the challenges ahead. A shift in roles and emotions is almost certain. It is natural to feel angry, frustrated, exhausted, alone or sad. The emotional and physical stress is very common.
This program is designed to be a tool and an excellent opportunity to welcome those who are facing these challenges to come together in a safe and supportive atmosphere. Moving slowly through movement and breathe work allows you to explore your mind and body at a steady and natural tempo. You receive the greatest benefits from this practice not through forcing yourself into movement, but by releasing and surrendering to it. This mentality helps to cultivate acceptance of your body and its inherent limitations.
This slower pace and deep breathing that you get will help to trigger the parasympathetic nervous system from the very start. This activation helps to mitigate the effects of the regular fight-or-flight stress response that can be damaging to your physiology and well-being. The overall calming effect on the nervous system sets a deep relaxing tone for the class that comforts not only your mind and body down to the cellular level, but your loved ones as well. This joint enrichment program gives both the person who is living with dementia and their care partner an opportunity to de-stress and re-energize in a peaceful, calming, relaxing atmosphere under the guidance of an educated provider.