It’s April. So rejoice, hikers with Parkinson’s!
The month of April can be frightfully busy. There are kids and grandkids’ end-of-year school programs to attend, and outdoor sports are ramping up. Tax returns are due. Religious holidays bring big gatherings. And then there’s spring cleaning.
But there’s a lot to celebrate in April, too. For one, it’s the perfect time to get out on a hike. Here are four reasons to be excited this month, along with some ideas on what to do to stay positive in the face of a debilitating disease.
1. Spring arrives in April
OK, officially the vernal equinox comes in March. But in much of the U.S., April is when the real transition from winter to warmth happens. Even in hotter climates, it’s still a good time to get outside. The sun sets later, so there’s more light in the evening to enjoy the outdoors. Spring is awesome. It brings hope, renewal, rebirth.
What you can do
–Stop everything and listen for just one minute in the morning when you hear birds singing.
–Invite a friend or relative to go on a walk. Try a new way to walk.
2. April is Parkinson’s Awareness Month
I don’t know who designates these things, but it’s nice to have a month for the nation to focus on Parkinson’s disease. There are a lot of misconceptions out there that need correcting, too.
What you can do
–Become more aware yourself. Visit a website about Parkinson’s and see what’s new. Here are some resources.
–Take an opportunity to be open with one person about Parkinson’s. Instead of hiding a tremor, explain it, perhaps even with humor. (“I’m not nervous, I swear! I just need to move a lot.”)
–Donate to someone’s fundraiser for a Parkinson’s cure or other helpful cause.
3. National Park Week is in April
It’s no secret the Park Service is overrun with tourists. The national parks’ popularity has skyrocketed since the pandemic, resulting in timed entries and competition for campsites. And it’s no wonder why people flock to them. They are showcases for the best that nature offers in America. This year, National Park Week is April 19-27, and admission to parks and monuments is free on Saturday, April 19.
What you can do
–Actually, skip the free days, unless you can tolerate long lines of cars and being in other people’s photos. The parks are especially crowded on all of the free days. But don’t let that deter you! Plan to go on a weekday if you can.
–Get inside the parks for a sunrise hike. You’ll beat the crowds, and the lighting at dawn creates stunning effects not seen in bright daylight.
–Support the parks with a donation. There are many ways to give. Some fund-raisers will give you lovely address labels for donating.
4. Earth Day is April 22
Planet Earth is hurting. Fires, hurricanes, earthquakes, tornadoes, warming, and drought are her symptoms. Whether they are caused by humans or not, she needs our help. Even small ways count.
What you can do
–Take one day to notice how much water goes to waste in your household, and change your habits if needed.
–Purchase (or create) a new piece of art for your home that reminds you of the beauty of the Earth.
–About that spring cleaning … recycle, regift, or donate still-usable stuff you might otherwise just throw away.
So where will your next hike or outdoor exercise take place?
Give an answer in the comments!
