People living with Parkinson’s disease can sign up for a dance class in Des Moines to explore the benefits of dance and movement with others who share some of the challenging symptoms of the disease.

The free classes are from 2-3:30 p.m. on Mondays, beginning Oct. 1 at the Des Moines Senior Center, 2045 S. 216th St. The program runs for eight weeks.

Space is limited, so pre-registration is required. To register visit Northwest Parkinson’s Foundation online at www.nwpf.org/.

The program is part of the Dance for Parkinson’s that was initiated in the Northwest by Seattle Theatre Group in partnership with EvergreenHealth and Spectrum Dance Theater, later expanding to include Northwest Parkinson’s Foundation and Des Moines Senior Center.

Classes also are offered in Kirkland (Peter Kirk Community Center) and in Seattle (Garfield Community Center).

Classes use live music, trained dance instructors and passionate participants, including those with PD and their caregivers. Each class encourages creative dance, freestyle movement and laughter.

Professional dancers lead the classes and engage students in dance styles such as ballet, jazz, contemporary, tap and world dance to address PD-specific concerns such as balance, flexibility, coordination, isolation and depression. No dance experience is required, and the fun, uplifting classes are considered a welcome respite from the stress of Parkinson’s on participants and caregivers.