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An especially efficient brain and upright gait distinguishes humans from other animals. And many scientists are convinced that the ability to walk upright had a decisive influence on the development of the human brain.
Hunter-gatherers were always on the move. Homo sapiens achieved evolutionary success by processing movements and sensory impressions, as well as having the ability to pass these on to others in our species. Having our hands free allowed humans to "grasp" our environment in the truest sense of the word. Numerous studies show that we learn better when we touch objects or while on the move. According to recent research, movement even helps prevent mental deterioration.
But what happens when movement becomes less and less important to our modern lives? The consequences go beyond problems like obesity, back pain and poor posture. Scientific studies and brain scans show that a lack of movement also has serious mental implications.
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