“I Am”

This exercises was created for the Houston Area Parkinson Society. As included in the video, it is realistic to vocalize/share our frustrations during such challenging times (COVID-19 Virus), but it’s also important to remember the positive attributes we bring to the world as individuals. I hope you enjoy the video and feel free to share with others!

STEP 1: Think of three separate words that describe positive aspects of who you are as a person (i.e. encouraging, hopeful, loving).

STEP 2: Say your first name, followed by the positive statements you have determined, for example…

I am “John”
I am “encouraging”
I am “hopeful”
I am “loving”
I am “John”

Please note these words are simply used as examples. Take time to think of words that represent you. Remember, YOU are unique and have a variety of gifts! Of course, it’s ok to use these words if they describe an aspect of your personality.

STEP 3: Repeat Step 2 (saying each word aloud) while adding your body as an image that represents each word, for example…

I am “John”
     (complete sentence spoken with NO image)                                                        I am “encouraging”
     (hold a “thumbs up” as if saying “great job” to a friend needing encouragement)
I am “hopeful”
     (raise both arms towards the sky, as if saying “I have hope”)
I am “loving”
     (use hands/arms, as if giving a friend a hug, saying “I love you”)
I am “John”
   (complete sentence spoken with NO image)       

Remember to FREEZE, using your body as an image. Also, the physical directions are used to explain how the process works. So, if you choose one of these words, enjoy the freedom of using your body in a different way. Remember, it’s your choice!

STEP 4: Repeat Step 3, but do NOT say all words aloud. Instead, use your body to show the different images (as in Step 3). See below for what you WILL say versus what you will NOT say, but rather SHOW with your body.

I am “John”
     (complete sentence spoken with NO image)
I am…encouraging
     (hold a “thumbs up” as if saying “great job” to a friend needing encouragement)
I am…hopeful
     (use both arms high reaching towards the sky, as if saying “I have hope”)
I am…loving
     (use hands/arms, as if giving a friend a hug and saying “I love you”)
I am “John”
     (complete sentence spoken with NO image)

These directions will hopefully make sense after watching the video. This description is simply used as another resource to help guide you through the process.