ANYTIME, ANYWHERE, HELP US REACH EVERYONE!

At the Center for Movement Challenges, we believe in the power of movement to transform lives, particularly for those living with Parkinson's disease. We make a difference every day. For over a decade we have successfully provided innovative programs, compassionate care, and a supportive community to help individuals regain strength, independence, and hope. From specialized exercise classes, to tele-health, to personalized therapies and emotional support, we empower people nationwide to face the challenges of Parkinson's with resilience and confidence. Our classes are accessible in-person, live virtual and online, with the reach of ANYTIME, ANYWHERE, FOR EVERYONE!

But we can’t do it alone. Your donation directly fuels these life-changing efforts, giving individuals the tools to slow disease progression, improve motor and non-motor symptoms, reclaim their quality of life and pursue their passions. As a 501 (c) *(3) all donations are fully tax deductible.*

**Be the Difference**

When you donate to the Center for Movement Challenges, you’re investing in more than a program—you’re investing in people. Your contribution helps us provide accessible, high-quality programs and services to those in need, ensuring cost is never a barrier to care.  With your support, we can expand our reach, engage in groundbreaking research, and create new opportunities for healing and growth. Please reach inside your hearts and donate. Be the difference! Together, we can break down barriers and offer hope to thousands affected by Parkinson's. Help us give the gifts of friendship, support and LIFE nationwide, gifting people living with Parkinson’s the tools to live the best life possible to its fullest potential.

Join us in this vital mission—your generosity can change lives today.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Denise Formisano

CFMC CEO

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Speech Maintenance and Cognitive Wellness Class One with Coach Valeria
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Speech Maintenance and Cognitive Wellness Class One with Coach Valeria

Develop a Strong, Commanding Voice and Mental Agility

Video notes

Valeria from CenterForMovementChallenges.org leads a session designed to improve vocal strength, clarity, and mental sharpness. By focusing on posture, breathing, and articulation, these exercises strengthen the voice and engage the brain for improved cognitive and physical health.

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Posture and Breathing: The Foundation of a Strong Voice

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  1. Posture Alignment:
    • Sit with feet flat, hips even, and shoulders rolled back and down.
    • Imagine a string pulling your head upward for proper alignment.
  2. Breathing Basics:
    • Place one hand on your chest and one on your belly.
    • Breathe deeply from your diaphragm, keeping the chest still and the belly moving.

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Warm-Up Exercises

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  1. Shoulder Rolls and Arm Movements:
    • Roll shoulders forward and backward to release tension.
    • Swing arms out wide, then hug yourself, alternating sides.
  2. Toy Soldiers:
    • March in place, moving arms and legs in unison to activate muscles.
  3. Jaw and Neck Stretches:
    • Perform wide, circular chewing motions with your mouth, both clockwise and counterclockwise.
    • Stretch the neck by turning your head side-to-side and tilting your ear toward your shoulder.

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Voice Strengthening Exercises

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  1. Sustained Vowel Sounds:
    • Take a deep belly breath and hold out the "ah" sound for a strong, clear voice.
    • Repeat ten times, focusing on projection and a wide-open mouth.
  2. Vocal Glides:
    • Stretch vocal cords by gliding from a low to a high pitch and back down, mimicking a siren sound.
    • Perform five rounds to enhance vocal flexibility.
  3. Low Note Exercises:
    • Contract vocal cords by gliding down to a comfortable low note, ensuring a full, rich tone.

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Brain and Speech Coordination Activities

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  1. Math and Movements:
    • Combine basic math problems (e.g., 1 + 1 = 2) with coordinated hand movements like clapping or slapping.
  2. Imaginary Catch Game:
    • Toss an imaginary ball while alternating between saying a day of the week and counting numbers aloud.
    • Maintain a loud, clear voice while focusing on accuracy and rhythm.

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Cool Down and Stretching

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  1. Throat and Jaw Stretch:
    • Open your mouth wide like a yawn, then release into a sigh. Repeat three times to relax vocal muscles.
  2. Breath Awareness:
    • Take a few slow, deep breaths to return to a calm state.

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Key takeaways

  • Good posture and diaphragm breathing are foundational for a strong voice.
  • Combining physical and vocal exercises enhances both articulation and mental focus.
  • Stretching and vocal glides improve flexibility and reduce tension in the throat.
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Speech Maintenance and Cognitive Wellness Class Three with Coach Valeria

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Speech Maintenance and Cognitive Wellness Class Two with Coach Valeria

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Reaching The Underserved

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