To maintain optimal brain health, regular physical activity is essential, advises Dr. Wendy Suzuki, a neuroscientist and dean at NYU College of Arts and Science. Speaking in a recent MasterClass, Suzuki emphasized the profound impact exercise has on the brain. She noted that even a simple 10-minute walk can significantly improve one’s mood, while strategic sports like soccer and basketball engage the prefrontal cortex more intensely than other exercises.
Suzuki’s preferred workout deviates from conventional routines. She champions intenSati, a unique exercise form combining high-energy cardio with positive affirmations, created by Patricia Moreno in 2002. “Inten” is derived from “intention,” while “Sati” is a Pali word meaning mindfulness. According to Suzuki, shouting affirmations during these workouts can enhance your mood and outlook on life. “If you shout out that you believe you will succeed, you are inspired, you are strong… you come out of that class feeling amazing,” she said.
Supporting the mental health benefits of positive affirmations, a University of California Berkeley study found that students who practiced self-compassion with affirmations and touch for 20 seconds daily over a month reported reduced stress and improved mental health.
Any form of exercise, regardless of the time of day, is beneficial, Suzuki noted. A 2022 study involving over 500,000 individuals revealed that vigorous physical activities could lower dementia risk by 35%, while regular household chores could reduce it by 21%.
“Every single drop of sweat counts for your brain,” Suzuki reiterated, underscoring the importance of incorporating physical activity into daily routines for overall cognitive well-being.
For those interested in enhancing their communication skills, CNBC offers an online course, “Become an Effective Communicator: Master Public Speaking.” Sign up by July 10, 2024, with the code EARLYBIRD for a 30% discount. Subscribe to CNBC Make It’s newsletter for additional tips on success in work, finance, and life.
Original Story https://www.cnbc.com/2024/07/06/neuroscientist-the-unique-exercise-i-do-for-optimal-brain-health.html
Category :
Tags:
