Move!: The New Science of Body Over Mind

Imagine a time when life was simple and movement was survival’s heartbeat. In this ancient world, creatures like the sea squirt reveal a startling truth: brains evolved not for abstract thought but to enable movement itself. When the sea squirt settles on a rock, it digests nearly its entire nervous system, proving that without movement, thinking becomes unnecessary. This biological economy underscores a profound evolutionary principle — movement is the foundation upon which the mind is built.

Our ancestors, millions of years ago, faced the challenge of navigating complex environments. To swing through trees or run across savannahs required not only muscles but brains capable of rapid planning and adaptation. The cerebellum, that small, cauliflower-shaped brain region, expanded dramatically, taking on roles far beyond coordinating movement. It became a hub for emotional regulation and forward thinking, linking movement to cognition in ways that shaped human intelligence.

Think of the brain not as a solitary commander but as a lively chatroom where body and mind converse constantly. Our sense of proprioception gives us an innate map of where our limbs are, enabling fluid movement without conscious thought. Interoception, the sensing of internal bodily states, colors our emotions and awareness. Together, these systems weave a seamless narrative of self, grounded in the body’s ongoing dialogue with the brain.

Understanding this intimate connection invites us to rethink how we nurture our minds. To think well, we must move well — the two are inseparable partners in the dance of life. As we journey forward, we’ll explore how simple acts like walking and dancing unlock the mind’s hidden potential, revealing the healing power of movement. Let’s step into this next chapter, where every footfall carries the promise of renewed creativity and clarity.