Physical activity - so powerful for brain Unique exercise for optimal brain health

The regular physical activity is essential for maintaining and improving overall health, contributing to both physical fitness and mental well-being throughout life.

To maintain optimal brain health, it's beneficial to participate in physical activity regularly.

According to Dr. Wendy Suzuki, a neuroscientist and dean of NYU College of Arts and Science, physical activity is highly impactful for our brain, as emphasized in a recent episode of a MasterClass series featuring neuroscientists and psychiatrists offering insights on brain health, Caliber.Az reports citing the foreign media.

Suzuki highlighted how even a 10-minute walk each day can significantly improve mood, and emphasized that dynamic sports like soccer and basketball engage the prefrontal cortex more effectively than other exercises. However, her personal workout routine differs significantly from typical workouts.

"I was drawn back into exercise from being a couch potato by this incredible workout," Suzuki explained. "It's called intenSati."

She elaborated that the "inten" part of the name derives from "intention," while "Sati" comes from the Pali language and means mindfulness or awareness.

"IntenSati involves moving your body while vocalizing affirmations," Suzuki noted. The workout method was developed by Patricia Moreno in 2002 and combines cardio with mindfulness practices, making it Suzuki's preferred exercise for brain health.

According to the official website for intenSati, "This workout pairs high-energy cardio moves with high-emotion mantras that will leave you uplifted, connected, and strong."

Suzuki emphasized the profound impact of speaking positive affirmations aloud on one's outlook and mood. "If you vocalize affirmations like believing in your success, feeling inspired, and being strong for an entire hour alongside a group of enthusiastic participants," Suzuki explained, "you leave that class feeling incredible."

A recent study conducted at the University of California Berkeley involved 135 undergraduate students who were encouraged to practice self-compassion by saying compassionate statements to themselves for 20 seconds daily, accompanied by compassionate touch such as placing a hand on their heart. After consistently following this routine for one month, the students reported reduced stress levels and improvements in their mental health.

Dr. Wendy Suzuki emphasized the importance of finding time for physical activity amidst busy schedules. "Whatever form of workout you choose, any time of day is the best time to exercise because our lives are so hectic," she noted.

Furthermore, a 2022 study examining health data from over 500,000 individuals revealed that regular participation in vigorous physical activities like exercise and sports reduced the risk of developing dementia by 35 per cent.

"Even regularly doing household chores lowered an individual's risk of dementia by 21 per cent," Dr. Wendy Suzuki pointed out.

"Every single drop of sweat counts for your brain," she added, emphasizing the positive impact of physical activity on brain health.