The Nueva School's Innovative Learning Conference

Get ready for a session that brings together cutting-edge science and a playlist designed to get you moving!

People who are physically active have a stronger sense of purpose and experience more gratitude, love, and hope. They feel more connected to their communities and are less likely to suffer from loneliness or become depressed. These benefits are seen throughout the lifespan, apply to every socioeconomic stratum, and appear to be culturally universal.

In this talk, learn how and why physical activity promotes resilience, belonging, and even meaning in life. From the biological, including how exercise remodels the brain to make you more receptive to joy and social connection; to the psychological, such as how movement is intertwined with identity, self-expression, and self-efficacy; to the social, including how moving with others harnesses human instincts for teamwork, trust, and interdependence.

After thirty minutes of scientific insights and a discussion of their practical implications, get ready to experience the joy of movement yourself. Kelly will lead the group in 20 minutes of movement that requires no special skills or even “appropriate” clothing or footwear. Come as you are and learn physical movements that are linked to joy around the world. Experience the fun of moving in synchrony with friends and strangers, and master a simple dance routine to songs you know and love.