June 12 - Rock Painting Party

Day 163 of a year of KindnessI helped host a rock painting party at the YMCA for a group of people who have Parkinson’s disease. This group usually attends a workout session, but their coach, Lori, thought it was time to do something different. So, we hatched this plan, the word spread, and staff and volunteers started bringing in rocks. Soon, we had 50 rocks!

The best part of the painting party was watching them lose themselves in their art no matter their skill level or limitations. Plus, their caretakers and YMCA volunteers and staff also painted. During that one hour, while focusing on art and community, no one had time to think about their own problems or the problems outside that room. It was a creative respite.

Science of kindness: Researchers reveal that artistic endeavors help people who have Parkinson’s because it improves their motor and non-motor symptoms, reduces anxiety and enhances their overall well-being. It is also a good mental health break for their caretakers. #bekind #kindnessiscontagious #kindnessisfree #kindness #parkinsonsandpainting