'Curious Conversations' podcast: Julia Basso talks about mind-body movement
Julia Basso joined Virginia Tech’s “Curious Conversations” to talk about her research at the intersection of mind-body movement and neuroscience, particularly through the lens of dance. She explained how the Embodied Brain Lab explores the effects of dance on brain function, mental health, and social connections. She also shared the unique aspects of dance that make it an ideal activity for these studies.
“Curious Conversations” is available on Spotify, Apple, and YouTube.
Takeaways
The brain's electrical activity can be measured before, during, and after different mind-body movement activities and show how the activities improve cognitive functioning and creativity, as well as their positive affect.
Basso’s research also shows that social connectivity also improves during these activities, particularly dance, and her lab is exploring its lasting impact.
Basso’s study of new mothers practicing dance indicates it not only decreases depression, stress, and anxiety, but increases levels of immune function.
About Basso
Julia Basso is an assistant professor of human nutrition, foods, and exercise in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences and director of the Embodied Brain Laboratory. Her research investigates the effects of exercise on brain function and physiology, and the neurobiological underpinnings of exercise motivation.
Learn more
Researchers study the connection between dance and autism
Memphis Jookin' at the Embodied Brain Lab
About the podcast
"Curious Conversations" is a series of free-flowing conversations with Virginia Tech researchers that take place at the intersection of world-class research and everyday life. Produced and hosted by Travis Williams, assistant director of marketing and communications for the Office of Research and Innovation, university researchers share their expertise and motivations as well as the practical applications of their work in a format that more closely resembles chats at a cookout than classroom lectures. New episodes are shared each Tuesday.
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