Press release:
A workshop geared specifically for those suffering with multiple sclerosis will focus on physical therapy, exercise, and yoga as tools to manage symptoms, gain strength and balance, and improve quality of life. MS, Yoga & You will be held from 1 - 4 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 27, at Summit Physical Therapy in Batavia.
Gretchen Hawley, DPT has additional certification in treating patients with multiple sclerosis. She lives and works in Boston and is one of only two MS cerfitied physical therapists in Boston. Patricia Hawley is a registered yoga teacher at Blue Pearl Yoga in Batavia. Together they will present information on how exercise and physical therapy can benefit MS as well as give instruction in simple yoga poses that may alleviate symptoms such as fatigue, muscle weakness, spasticity, and incontinence.
“My MS patients who follow an exercise regimen and are consistent with their physical therapy program have a marked improvement over those who rely on medication alone,” says Gretchen Hawley. “And neurologists agree that those dealing with MS can improve their quality of life with the addition of exercise.”
“Many people think that you have to be very flexible to begin a yoga practice,” according to Patricia Hawley “but often the people who benefit the most from yoga are those who have limited mobility. It’s all about going slow and choosing the right class for your needs.”
Participants are encouraged to bring their own yoga mat but it is not necessary; mats will be available at the workshop.
The event will be held at Summit Physical Therapy, 99 Med Tech Drive, #104, Batavia. Cost for the workshop is $35 and seating is limited to 25 people. Anyone interested may register at www.bp-yoga.com or by calling 585.813.8623
