The human brain was not designed to perform tasks like reading newspapers, doing crossword puzzles, or using computers. Our brain was initially designed to send instructions to our body so that it could move, run and escape from a predatory animal, climb a tree, wander and search for sources of food, and carry out all of the acts required to preserve existence.
We now know that physical activity dramatically enhances brain plasticity and cognitive performance. Given the sharp rise in sedentary behavior, adult obesity, and aging populations with declining cognitive and physical abilities, the significance of this link is more crucial than ever. Throughout one’s lifespan, physical activity and exercise may help to maintain and even improve brain and cognitive performance.
Exercise for just 30 minutes is linked to gains in neuroplasticity, which have observable advantages for declarative memory and motor-skill coordination. The amount of neurons, the strength of their connections, as well as the regional connectivities in the brain, are all factors that affect neuroplasticity. On this basis, we can explain how physical activity and exercise improve mental and motor function, academic performance, the success of rehabilitation, as well as productivity, resilience, and general well-being.
The bulk of brain commands are responsible for controlling all types of movement, from raising a foot or waving a hand to contracting the heart and moving the intestines. The brain and the outer world converse with one another. Movement and sensation are used in every connection between the environment and the brain. Because of this, it is important to comprehend, regulate, and even manipulate movement. Since improving brain function affects quality of life, movement then becomes a vital tool for reaching optimal brain function and living. The movement and thought processes that go into creating, fostering, and enhancing neuronal connections are the main topics of our conference as usual.
The conference is a cross-disciplinary professional gathering that brings together academic theorists, researchers, and practitioners who treat their patients with body techniques. Participants have the option of attending the conference or delivering a hands-on workshop, which is frequently based on applied science and in-depth clinical experience. This gives professionals in the field the chance to see how theory may be applied realistically “on the treatment table.” Caregiving for children, whether neurotypical or not, and caregiving for the elderly will be examined collectively in the context of movement techniques that foster learning and enhance the standard of living and cognitive ability across a range of demographics. While for some academics, this may be their only opportunity to see how theory is used in practice, for many therapists, this is perhaps the only opportunity that allows them to approach and expose themselves to the highest levels of research and the profession.
Please note: While it is not obligatory, those who desire to present their work or research are invited to submit their abstracts.
CME credits are available.
You are welcome to join us, and should you have any questions or proposals, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Our previous conferences have been held in Oxford, Harvard Medical School, the Sorbonne, Tel-Aviv University, University College London, Charles University in Prague, and now at the University of Cambridge. Cambridge University has an 800-year-old tradition, having been founded in 1209. The three-day conference will be held on the campus of Jesus College (4-6 October 2026)
The 2026 Brain, Body and Cognition conference is being partnered by the School of Architecture of Cambridge University. Cambridge University is ranked 3rd in the world in Medicine and Health and Fifth overall. Notable alumni include Steven Hawking, Robert Oppenheimer, Isaac Newton, Charles Darwin, Alan Turing, Rachel Weisz, Sasha Baron-Cohen, Lord Byron, Niels Bohr, Jane Goodall, Ludwig Wittgenstein, Erasmus, Ernest Rutherford, Peter Paul Rubens, and many others.
See you in Cambridge, England in 4-6 October 2026
For the Scientific Committee
Prof. Gerry Leisman
Professor of Neuro- and Rehabilitation Sciences
University of Haifa and
Professor of Restorative Neurology
University of the Medical Sciences of Havana
Prof. Koen Steemers
Professor of Sustainable Design
Jesus College (Fellow)
Director of Studies (Jesus College)
Former Head of Department (2009-14)
Dr. Michal Gath-Morad
Assistant Professor
Cognitive Architecture
Peterhouse College (Fellow)
and Director of Studies in Architecture and Design