The British Wheel of Yoga (BWY) and Parkinson’s UK have formed a new partnership aimed at making yoga more accessible for people living with Parkinson’s, their families, and caregivers. The collaboration is designed to raise awareness about the benefits of the practice for this community while giving yoga teachers the skills to adapt their classes. To mark the start of the partnership, the two organizations are hosting a free 45-minute online chair yoga class on Friday, April 10th, ahead of World Parkinson’s Day on April 11th. The session will be led by Richard Kravetz, a Special Yoga Teacher and BWY Tutor, and will focus on safe, seated movements and breathing techniques.
The class is open to anyone affected by Parkinson’s, as well as yoga teachers who want to learn how to make their sessions more inclusive. Interested participants can book through the BWY website by creating a free account or logging into an existing one.
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Why chair yoga matters for people with Parkinson’s
The charity estimates that around 166,000 people in the UK currently live with a Parkinson’s diagnosis, a number expected to rise as the population ages. The condition is a progressive neurological condition that affects movement, often causing tremors, stiffness, and slowness. Research has indicated that the practice can improve motor function, balance, mobility, and overall quality of life for people with the condition. Diana O’Reilly, Chair of BWY, said that gentle chair-based practices can be adapted for almost everyone. “People can participate safely whether they are newly diagnosed or have been living with Parkinson’s for many years,” she said.
Jed Parsons, Physical Activity Delivery Manager for the charity, noted that it can be a powerful way to support strength and wellbeing. But he added that too often people feel classes aren’t accessible or suitable for them. “By working together, we can give yoga teachers the confidence, skills, and understanding to adapt their practice,” he said.
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The British Wheel of Yoga is a registered charity.
It serves over 5,000 members and relies on a network of 100 volunteers and a small central team. The organization is the leading charity for people affected by the condition, funding research and advocating for better care.
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Critics might note that while awareness campaigns are useful, access to regular, affordable classes remains a barrier for many. A single online session, even if free, does not guarantee ongoing support. Still, the partnership represents a structured attempt to bridge a gap that has existed for years.