Wigan borough yoga teacher launches first free class designed for people living with Parkinson’s
A Wigan borough yoga teacher has launched the first wellbeing programme specifically designed for people living with Parkinson’s disease.
Atherton-based studio owner Toni Marie has spent the past two years training and researching how specialist “brain yoga” and movement techniques can help people manage Parkinson’s symptoms, improve balance and mobility, and maintain independence for longer.
After winning a funding bid from Forever Manchester, Toni is launching a free four-week course on March 4 for those with the disease at her studio in Atherton.
Toni said: "I wanted to ensure that these often life-changing exercises weren't limited by financial position.
“While some activities are available locally, this pioneering programme offers the borough’s first free yoga and mindfulness classes designed specifically for people living with Parkinson’s.
"I reached out to Forever Manchester because I had previously received funding for my other community project, a local mums' support group. Now I am so excited to say my bid and application have been accepted, and I can bring my vision to life.
I am passionate about supporting my local community and providing a space where everyone, regardless of their stage of Parkinson's, can find a new pathway forward.
“Parkinson’s is very close to my heart. My grandma lived with the condition, and seeing the impact it had on her confidence and independence stayed with me.
"This programme is my way of giving something back and making sure people can access support without barriers”
The program’s future effectiveness can be reflected in the transformative experiences of Toni's clients.
Sarah Jackson, who has been working with Toni in one-on-one sessions for a couple of years, emphasises the impact on her daily life.
She said: As someone with Parkinson's Disease, I face physical challenges, but Toni has tailored our sessions to address my specific needs. Her expertise and compassionate approach have significantly improved my mobility, balance, and overall well-being. I am so grateful for her dedication and support".
Chris Jones, another long-term client who has navigated both a Parkinson’s diagnosis and a broken hip, describes the sessions as a "lifeline".
She added: "To anyone else, I may have presented as a 'lost cause,' but not Toni. Over the past 12 months, her positivity and 'brain yoga' have given me the confidence to take controlled risks. I have seen massive progress in my balance and coordination, but most importantly, I have risen out of a massive pit of apathy".
The sessions will be limited to 10 participants to ensure personalised attention.
The classes are structured to address the characteristic movement patterns of Parkinson’s, including reduced movement amplitude, rigidity, postural changes, balance impairment, and gait difficulties. Core principles include:
- Encouraging large, intentional (“BIG”) movements
- Emphasising upright posture and spinal extension
- Practising slow, controlled transitions to reduce freezing episodes and fall risk
- Using external cues (counting, rhythm, verbal prompts) to support movement initiation
- Incorporating dual-task activities (movement plus cognitive tasks) to support functional brain–body integration
- Including breath and voice work to promote diaphragmatic breathing and vocal strength
- Ensuring safety at all times, with chairs, wall support, and wide base-of-support positions used throughout
All movements are adaptable, and participants are encouraged to work within their own comfort and ability levels.
Over the four weeks, participants can expect a gradual progression from foundational to more complex movement skills.