Cover Image: Move

Move

Pub Date:   |   Archive Date:

Member Reviews

I loved this new exploration of the importance of movement for our brains and bodies! Williams's lens on a classic topic/recommendation is motivational, fresh, and persuasive, and I came away with a lot of new goals for movement in my life.

Was this review helpful?

"Move: How the New Science of Body Movement Can Set Your Mind Free" by Caroline Williams is a compelling exploration of the intricate relationship between physical movement and mental well-being. Williams delves into the latest scientific research, offering readers a thought-provoking journey into the ways in which our bodies and minds are interconnected. This book presents a wealth of valuable insights for those interested in optimizing their mental health through mindful movement.

One of the book's strengths lies in Williams' ability to distill complex scientific concepts into accessible and engaging prose. She skillfully navigates through a diverse range of topics, from the benefits of exercise on cognitive function to the impact of posture on mood. Williams provides practical takeaways and actionable advice, empowering readers to incorporate mindful movement into their daily lives.

The incorporation of personal anecdotes and case studies adds a relatable and human touch to the scientific exploration. Williams shares stories of individuals who have experienced transformative changes in their mental well-being through intentional movement practices. These narratives serve as powerful illustrations of the potential impact that conscious movement can have on mental health.

While the book provides a comprehensive overview of the science behind the mind-body connection, some readers may have wished for more detailed guidance on specific movement practices or exercises. Additionally, a deeper exploration of the cultural and historical aspects of movement would have added further depth to the content.

I was provided an advanced copy of this book by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Was this review helpful?

The connection between movement and physical and mental health (and why there isn't *really* a difference between those two types of health) is explained simply and clearly in this outstanding book from Caroline Williams.

Was this review helpful?

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing this read. All opinions are my own.
Movement science can be fad-driven, and there are many sources for information not based in accurate research. Our bodies may have the ability to heal themselves, provided we limit sedentary activities and stay active. Move it or lose it? Maybe!

Was this review helpful?

This book has really cool ideas on how movement can mean better health and better moods. Love how it was pro yoga.

Was this review helpful?

I liked the idea of this book better than the book. It didn’t flow well for me. I’ve read non fiction before and it flowed, pulled you in. I felt like this one was more of an informative text. Which I know it was meant to give you information about science and how movement affects the body, but I guess I expected a more personal take?

Was this review helpful?

I absolutely loved this book! I found it hard to put down. I highly recommend reading it! You won’t be disappointed.

Was this review helpful?

Move makes a compelling case for exercise, and not just in the way diet culture has come to spread movement myths. This book is backed by science and research. It really puts into perspective how our modern lives have pushed us away from the movement that our body craves and needs. If you want a version of exercise that is merely about making you feel good, then this is a good place for quality information.

Was this review helpful?

This is a fascinating read about how moving throughout the day is probably best for everyone. Our ancestors weren't sedentary like we are now. They moved a lot throughout the days, hunting, gathering, farming, taking care of everything. Science has proven that our movements affect our mind and memory. We learn about the benefits of stretching and how it affects more than just our muscles. Caroline Williams gives us a Movement Manifesto at the end with tips to adding more movement into our lives. I found it a great read for someone who is intrigued by how different things help the body in ways you don't think.

Was this review helpful?

This was a real eye-opening read for me. It changed the way I think about exercise. It did what a lot of books don't--it changed my behavior.

Was this review helpful?

Caroline Williams is a science journalist and does a great job explaining how immensely connected movement is to our brain and feelings of well being. It's no secret that going on a nice walk is a mood booster but why? Move really goes into depth about how to optimize and improve our lives through movement. This was a good reminder that I don't need to go to the gym for hours or run ten miles for the boost of happiness and helped give me tips for a brighter future.

Was this review helpful?

Found this guide to movement incredibly helpful as I look to restart an exercise routine. Encourages readers with its compelling examples of how movement aids our brain, boosts mood, and impacts everyday life. The author, a seasoned science journalist, reveals how much is needed and what we can do to truly feel better and live with more ease. Highly recommended for anyone who wants to feel better daily!

Thanks to the author, Harlequin Trade Publishing, Hanover Square Press, and NetGalley for the ARC; opinions are mine.

#Move #NetGalley

Was this review helpful?

This book is an interesting dive into the science of how movement affects our bodies. It is written in a way that is easily understood, clear and concise, and piques you into wanting to continue reading. I found Ms. Williams' book to be very interesting and well researched. It did inspire me to figure out ways in which I want to move more. I liked the little movement tips at the end of some chapters. I feel that this book will help others find the inspiration they need to move as well.

Was this review helpful?

Move by Caroline Williams The benefits of movement presented in a readable well-researched book. Many helpful tips are provided in how to incorporate movement into your lifestyle. A valuable resource on the mind body connection.

Thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to preview the book.

Was this review helpful?

A totally readable well-researched treatise of why we need to all get out and move more. Statistics comparing past lifestyles to current day make this abundantly clear paired with anecdotal and scientific findings to support this claim. As a teacher, I found this read particularly interesting and relevant. I hope to put some of what I’ve learned into practice and plan to share this book with my colleagues.

Was this review helpful?

This book presents a pop science accounting of some of the more interesting scientific literature on the benefits of moving one’s body – be it through dance, martial arts, walking, or otherwise. That being active is an important element of maintaining a healthy mind and body will come as no surprise. Still, there are a number of specific points this book makes that may come as a surprise to many, such as that those who do an hour of intense exercise a day but otherwise live desk warrior lives may not be as well off as they think.

As the topic (and the scientific literature from which the book draws) is huge, the author focuses specifically on the mental benefits of physical movement, both attitudinal / psychological benefits and cognitive benefits such as improved creative thinking or memory. I found the book’s organization to be beneficial, and – in particular – believe it was a smart move to include chapters on breath and rest – topics that are integral to a life of movement, but which might not spring to mind. Particularly, the chapter on breath discusses findings on synchronization of breath and movement more than does many books on breath or movement, as well as offering extensive discussion of the benefits of 3 and 6 breath per minute (bpm) breathing.

There are a lot of books out there on this subject – though usually they focus either on exercise or on a particular approach to movement. Those who read extensively on the topic may not find much that is new in this book. However, I think “Move” holds its own, and also distinguishes itself in some of its fine points of emphasis. Certainly, if one is looking for a book to introduce someone to the benefits of movement, this is a prudent choice.

Was this review helpful?

As a firm believer that “movement is medicine,” I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It’s structured as a collection of narratives about various types of movement, following athletes and regular people. Well-researched and providing helpful tips at the end of each chapter to incorporate each strategy into one’s own life, this book is a must-read.

Was this review helpful?

Walking can improve your cognitive skills. Strengthening your muscular core reduces anxiety? Stretching can combat many mental and bodily ailments. If you’ve ever exercised, then you know exercise changes the way you think and feel. Scientists are uncovering why and how this happens. .

Here the author explores the science of how movement opens up a direct link to our minds. She has Interviewed researchers and practitioners around the world. You want to improve your mind? Read in Move, how working out your body helps this to occur. .

The writing is engaging and filled with scientific information explained in an understandable manner for all. I like the analogies to help explain complex concepts. Now let’s go Move!

Was this review helpful?

This book does a fantastic job of explaining the latest research on the mind-body connection: how movement affected our evolution, and how the mind requires body movement to learn, think, and live at peak performance. It could be potentially life-changing to adopt some of the habits recommended in this book, leading to better health and happiness. The author provides good evidence that it's time to stop thinking about the mind and body as separate entities and recognize instead how fully integrated they are.

Thanks, NetGalley, for the ARC I received. This is my honest and voluntary review.

Was this review helpful?

This is an engaging book, with plenty of scientific information explained easily for laypeople. The author's writing style is friendly, engages the reader, and offers wonderfully described examples and analogies to explain complex concepts.

Was this review helpful?