The One You Feed Caroline Williams on The Science of Movement
May 13, 2022
Caroline Williams, a science journalist and author of "Move: How the New Science of Body Movement Can Set Your Mind Free," dives into the remarkable link between movement and mental health. She explains how physical activity not only boosts our mood but also enhances creativity and self-esteem. The conversation explores interoception, the brain's role in movement, and how activities like strength training and dance foster social connections. Along the way, Caroline adds a dose of humor, tying winter swimwear antics to the science of walking's cognitive benefits.
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Brain Plasticity and Positivity
- The brain's structure physically changes based on our thoughts and actions, reinforcing chosen behaviors.
- Positive actions and thoughts, like kindness and compassion, can rewire the brain towards these traits, supported by scientific evidence.
Brain's Primary Function: Movement
- Brains primarily evolved to guide movement, increasing survival odds by directing us towards beneficial things and away from harm.
- Emotions, derived from the Latin word for "to move," inform our actions and contribute to this movement-based survival mechanism.
Movement and Mental Health
- Humans are unique in that movement is optional, leading to sedentary lifestyles and potential mental health decline.
- Strength training significantly improves mental health, boosting self-esteem and reducing anxiety and depression.
