Success Tips: Bringing BIG Into Daily Life
The exercises you learn in LSVT BIG are powerful—but the real transformation happens when you bring them into your everyday life. Therapy sessions give you the tools, but home is where the real change takes root.
Why Everyday Practice Matters
Research shows that people with Parkinson’s who continue structured practice at home maintain better walking, balance, and independence for months longer compared to those who stop. With over 10 million people worldwide living with Parkinson’s, the individuals who see the biggest improvements aren’t always the strongest or fastest—they’re the ones who keep practicing consistently, in small and meaningful ways, every day.
This isn’t about adding more work to your plate. It’s about choosing to live with bigger, more intentional movements that feel natural and help you stay independent, confident, and connected.
Bringing BIG Into Everyday Moments
BIG doesn’t require extra hours in your day. It’s about transforming the things you already do.
🌟 Walking
When you move around the house, walk to your car, or go for a short stroll, focus on taking long, deliberate steps. Swing your arms with energy—it makes your walking smoother and more stable.
🌟 Standing Up
Instead of pushing yourself up quickly or cautiously, treat every sit-to-stand as practice. Plant your feet, lean forward, and rise tall. This not only strengthens your legs but also reminds your brain and body what “BIG” feels like.
🌟 Reaching
Reaching for a glass, putting away groceries, or grabbing the remote—these moments are opportunities to stretch boldly and extend your arms fully.
🌟 Turning
Shuffling can make turns unsteady. Practice turning with confidence by taking wide, purposeful steps. Think of it as moving with grace, not rushing.
🌟 Household Chores
Cooking, sweeping, folding laundry, or gardening—these everyday actions can become part of your practice. Bring energy and intention to each one.
🌟 Self-Care Routines
Brushing your teeth, combing your hair, or buttoning your shirt—these moments matter. Practice them BIG, not small, and your independence grows stronger.
Tips to Stay Consistent
- Set Reminders. Place sticky notes on mirrors, the fridge, or doors that say, “Think BIG.” Use phone alarms as gentle nudges throughout the day.
- Link BIG to Habits. Stand tall while brushing your teeth, walk BIG on your way to the kitchen, or practice sit-to-stand while watching TV.
- Celebrate Small Wins. Progress is built step by step. Every time you move with purpose, you are retraining your brain and strengthening your body.
- Ask for Support. Invite your spouse, caregiver, or a friend to encourage you. They can remind you, cheer you on, and even practice BIG alongside you.
- Track Your Progress. Write down how often you practice BIG. Seeing your consistency on paper builds motivation and confidence.
Overcoming Common Challenges
It’s natural to face hurdles. Here’s how to handle them:
🌧️ Feeling Tired
Do what you can, when you can. Even five minutes of BIG practice makes a difference.
🌀 Freezing Episodes
Use BIG to break the freeze—take a deliberate step forward, swing your arms, or say “BIG” out loud as you move.
💭 Frustration
Progress may feel slow at times, but remember: every repetition is a victory. Your effort today is shaping your strength for tomorrow.
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