“Physical fitness is not only one of the most important keys to a healthy body; it is the basis of dynamic and creative intellectual activity”
JFK was really on to something: the more I practice DNS and Pilates, the more I see the profound connection between physical activity and how well our minds work. The research backs me up on this as well:
Physical Activity Enhances Cognitive Function
Numerous studies have shown that physical activity has a positive impact on brain health and cognitive function. Exercise increases blood flow to the brain, promoting the growth of new brain cells and enhancing neural connections. This, in turn, can improve memory, focus, attention, and problem-solving abilities. Regular physical activity is linked to reduced risks of cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases, contributing to sharper cognitive performance throughout life.
Physical Activity Improves Mental and Emotional Well-Being
Physical fitness also plays a significant role in mental and emotional well-being. Exercise triggers the release of endorphins, often referred to as "feel-good" chemicals, which can elevate mood and reduce feelings of stress and anxiety. Engaging in physical activities provides an opportunity for relaxation, stress relief, and mindfulness, fostering a positive mental state that is conducive to creative and dynamic thinking.
Physical Activity Builds Discipline and Resilience
Consistent engagement in physical fitness requires discipline, commitment, and perseverance. By setting and achieving fitness goals, individuals develop a sense of accomplishment and self-confidence. This discipline and resilience extend beyond exercise and spill over into other areas of life, including intellectual pursuits. The determination cultivated through physical fitness can inspire greater dedication to intellectual challenges and personal growth.
Physical Activity Encourages a Balanced Lifestyle
Physical fitness is often a reflection of a balanced and healthy lifestyle. A well-rounded approach to fitness, including strength training, cardiovascular exercise, flexibility, and rest, supports overall equilibrium in life. This balance allows individuals to allocate time and energy to various intellectual endeavors, fostering creativity and intellectual curiosity.
What is Intelligent Movement?
While ANY movement is better than no movement, I’m a big believer in moving intelligently.
So what actually is Intelligent movement? Is it running? Is it lifting weights? Is it HIIT? Is it Pilates?
Intelligent movement is moving how we are supposed to move. It's moving with our physiological map. It's moving the way the human race has evolved to move.
Intelligent movement considers our neurodevelopmental progression, which emphasises the importance of following the natural developmental sequence of movement patterns that infants go through, from lying on their back to rolling, crawling, kneeling, standing, and walking. These foundational movement patterns are considered the building blocks for more complex and functional movements. Basically, if you were a healthy baby (that is, developmentally there were no problems) then you already have the foundational wiring, it's just a matter of reigniting the pathways and bringing them front and centre.
You see, as we get older we learn bad habits, poor posture, sedentary lifestyles, desk jobs, the list goes on, these behaviours override the ideal neuromuscular patterns we set up at the beginning of our lives (between the age of 3 months and 18 months). But it doesn't mean they can't be practiced and utilised again. They CAN- using the DNS model. Read more about the DNS model in my blog post here.
Once we have these developmental movements nailed, it doesn’t really matter what exercise regime we want to do, if you enjoy it, do it, it will all help with dynamic and creative intellectual activity. Just get the basics right first.
Intrigued? Join me for my next workshop!
It’s this DNS model that we will be diving into at my next Pillar of Wellness event- 'Intelligence' on Sept 9th at 2pm in Highett Bayside. There will be a movement class (DNS and Pilates), which aims to rewire those optimal motor patterns as well as challenge the mind to body connection. We will end the event with wine and nibbles, a chance to socialise and all attendees will receive a free gift! More info and tickets here.