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euro Challenge Foundation for Parkinson’s and Yoga Project International Announce Expansion of Yoga and Mindfulness Initiative for People with Parkinson’s Disease and Their Caregivers Contact Name: Traci Willingham Contact Email: traci@neurochallenge.org Contact Phone Number: 941-926-6413 Sarasota, FL | 12/22/2020 - Neuro Challenge Foundation for Parkinson’s has received a grant of $15,000 to expand yoga and mindfulness therapeutic programs to empower people with Parkinson’s Disease and their caregivers to experience new levels of hope by optimizing function and restoring independence. These programs are adapted to meet all levels of the disease, valuable to newly diagnosed, progressed states and caregivers alike. “Thanks to the generous support of Yoga Project International, we are able to safely offer virtual yoga and mindfulness programs to the Parkinson’s community at no cost,” said Robyn Faucy-Washington, CEO of Neuro Challenge. “By teaming up to support our collective missions, Yoga Project International has been a valuable partner in expanding our offerings with virtual yoga classes on demand via the Neuro Challenge website, as well as future community-based program options. We provide much-needed social support for participants and caregivers, aligning with our commitment to helping individuals thrive while living with chronic disease.” The benefits of yoga and mindfulness are well documented in scientific and medical literature. Some of the physical benefits are increased flexibility, decreased pain, and greater sense of balance and body awareness. Improved emotional outlook, decreased stress levels, and the development of coping strategies are some of the emotional benefits of yoga, mindful breathing and meditation. “There is quite a bit of research available regarding the physical and emotional benefits of yoga and mindful breathing practices for those in all stages of Parkinson’s,” states Pamela Shackley, Executive Director, Yoga Project International. “By partnering with Neuro Challenge, we are able to offer all those in the Parkinson's community access to programs that can help with the physical and emotional challenges of Parkinson’s Disease.” "Neuro Challenge is pleased to continue essential programs at a time that is particularly stressful for people with Parkinson’s and their caregivers. We are extremely grateful to Yoga Project International for their generous support of the Parkinson’s community. This collaborative partnership will provide yoga and mindfulness programs to the six counties served by Neuro Challenge and those who participate virtually both nationally and internationally,” said Faucy-Washington. About Yoga Project International Yoga Project is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to bringing the therapeutic and healing benefits of yoga to underserved and at-risk populations. We have successfully developed and funded eight separate pilot programs. We are expanding specific programs to a national and international presence. Through our community partners we have identified the groups that have the greatest need in our community. Adults and children in public housing, those with Parkinson's and their caregivers, at-risk youth, individuals recovering from substance abuse, and those suffering from anxiety and depression are some of the groups benefitting from our programs. About Neuro Challenge Foundation for Parkinson’s Neuro Challenge Foundation for Parkinson’s is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization created to improve the quality of life of people with Parkinson’s disease and their caregivers today. Neuro Challenge provides individualized Care Advising and monthly virtual and community-based education, therapeutic and support programs in Sarasota, Manatee, Pinellas, Highlands, Marion and Charlotte counties. All Neuro Challenge essential services and programs are offered at no cost to people with Parkinson’s disease and their loved ones.