In her earlier book Bored and Brilliant, Manoush Zomorodi explored how stepping away from our screens can activate our brains' default mode, helping us think more clearly and creatively. In Body Electric she examines the intersection between technology and human physicality--specifically, our need for frequent movement throughout the day in order to maintain optimal health. Body Electric shares extensive research supporting five-minute movement breaks for every half hour of sitting, but the book doesn't stop there. Instead, it also shares real-life strategies for actually standing up and making these move breaks happen in the midst of busy work or school days. Zomorodi gathers many of these strategies from participants in her Body Electric study, a collaboration with exercise physiologist Keith Diaz.

Body Electric landed in my hands at the perfect moment, right as I was shifting into a new job role with more meetings, and yes, more sitting for longer periods. Even in the first week of these longer sit sessions, I noticed a change in how I felt--stiffer, more fatigued, and more foggy-headed. Luckily, Body Electric has given me lots of ideas for ways to get up and moving more often. The book also has me rethinking my longtime approach to exercise, away from single morning fitness sessions, and towards multiple "movement snacks" throughout my day.

There aren't many books I read that make an immediate difference in the quality of my day-to-day life and health, but this is one of them. My favorite thing about Body Electric is Zomorodi's inclusion of all life stages. There's something for everyone in here, from parents looking to help their kids move more, to retirees looking to maintain strength and mobility. I highly recommend it for anyone who wants to feel better at work, at school, or just in daily life.