The Unique Exercise This Neuroscientist Recommends for Optimal Brain Health

To maintain optimal brain health, regular physical activity is essential.

The Power of Physical Activity for Brain Health

Dr. Wendy Suzuki, a neuroscientist and dean of NYU College of Arts and Science, emphasizes the profound impact of physical activity on brain health. In a recent MasterClass series featuring neuroscientists and psychiatrists, Dr. Suzuki highlighted the benefits of even simple exercises like walking for enhancing mood. She also mentioned that strategic sports like soccer and basketball can engage the prefrontal cortex more effectively than other forms of exercise.

Dr. Suzuki’s Unique Workout: IntenSati

Dr. Suzuki’s preferred workout is called IntenSati, a unique exercise that combines cardio with positive affirmations. This workout, created by Patricia Moreno in 2002, involves high-energy cardio moves paired with affirmations spoken out loud.

According to Dr. Suzuki, the name “IntenSati” comes from “intention” and “Sati,” a Pali word meaning mindfulness or awareness. She explains that shouting positive affirmations while exercising can significantly boost your mood and outlook on life.

The Science Behind IntenSati

The official IntenSati website describes the workout as combining high-energy cardio moves with high-emotion mantras to leave participants feeling uplifted, connected, and strong. Dr. Suzuki shares that engaging in this type of exercise with others amplifies the positive effects.

Supporting this, a study from the University of California Berkeley found that students who practiced self-compassionate affirmations daily reported less stress and better mental health after one month.

Any Physical Activity is Beneficial

Dr. Suzuki emphasizes that any form of exercise, regardless of the time of day, is beneficial for brain health. A 2022 study involving over 500,000 people found that regular vigorous physical activity can reduce the risk of developing dementia by 35%. Even regular household chores can lower the risk by 21%.

“Every single drop of sweat counts for your brain,” says Dr. Suzuki.

Conclusion

Engaging in regular physical activity, especially workouts that combine physical exertion with positive affirmations like IntenSati, can significantly enhance brain health and overall well-being.

References

• MasterClass Series on Optimal Brain Health
• IntenSati Official Website
• University of California Berkeley Study
• 2022 Study on Physical Activity and Dementia Risk