Physical enthusiasts are not going to be surprised by this one: A new study reports that “Body Movements Can Influence Problem Solving.” Researchers set up a problem that required a creative solution. Subjects were guided through movement sessions: one group was led through movements that subtly resembled the ultimate solution, the other group was led through generalized, unrelated movements. Those who moved in the related way were far more likely to arrive at the solution.
This sounds obvious enough, but the findings are powerful evidence that the mind and body are intimately connected and interdependent. They also suggest that our Cartesian approach to education is deeply flawed. Instead of isolating the brain and trying to stuff it full of information, we ought to be bringing the body into the process. Physical movement isn’t just about health; it’s also about intelligence. As the researchers put it:
