Bonsai and Parkinson’s

I seem to have a knack for pursuing hobbies that directly challenge me because of my Parkinson’s. Perhaps that is why I am attracted to them. I like a good challenge. Last spring, my husband gave me a bonsai plant for my birthday. We went to a local nursery and chose just the right one for a beginner. The tiny tree came in a little plastic container so the first order of business was picking out just the right bonsai planter It needed to have good drainage and a tray to collect the excess water.

The real skill to caring for a bonsai is getting the shape just right. This requires very careful cutting, pruning and trimming of the tiny branches and leaves. I use miniature scissors to delicately shape the little tree into a realistic-looking form, The goal is to make it look like a real-life size tree. It is fun to watch the changes as the months of growth continue to present a challenge. Patience is a requirement for caring for bonsai. It is a good hobby for calming down the crazy busy lives that most of us lead.

Ok, I admit meticulously shaping a small plant using tiny tools does not seem possible for someone who tremors from Parkinson’s. But as I said I love a challenge. So I have prepared myself with the correct instruments, the best planter and the perfect starter plant. More importantly, I have equipped myself with patience, good humor and a sense of adventure. I am willing to take a chance and cut here and there as I learn how to be a bonsai caretaker.

So find something new that presents an out-of-the box challenge and go for it!