For many, dance is an act of creative expression, but for Marion Shields, a dancer with Parkinson's disease, it has become a tool of healing. Under the instruction of Sarah Krazit, Principal of the Sarasota Ballet, many individuals with Parkinson's disease have strengthened coordination, range of motion, and overall mobility through dance.
The dance class, Joyful Movement enables participants to move in a freeing and joyful way together. Marion Shields has used this dance class as an instrument to increase her confidence in mobility. Joyful Movement has allowed her to use both her body and mind simultaneously, which is difficult for those diagnosed with Parkinson's disease. Marion said that the increased confidence to move her body that has come forth from this class is "uplifting and makes you feel good.”
Sarah Krazit has spent most of her life as a dancer and teacher, focusing on mastering the technique and pushing herself. However, teaching the Parkinson's Joyful Movement dance class "has opened my eyes to know that dance is so much more than that." Sarah has grasped a new idea of dance, which is "incredibly healing and accessible to everyone."
Through the partnership between Sarasota Ballet and the Neuro Challenge Foundation for Parkinson's, many individuals have had the opportunity to learn and practice a new skill to help their healing process. By diving into the practice of the foundations of ballet, Marion Shields and others who have Parkinson's disease can live and function confidently, knowing they are "just an everyday, normal person."