Savage / Zen Newsletter No. 81

It’s funny that we think changing our behavior makes us healthy when the only truth is when we are healthy, our behavior changes
~ Brian Mackenzie

Strength and multiple types of physical activity predict cognitive function…

Network analyses suggest the critical predictor of cognitive function is overall relative neuromuscular function, which may be impacted by body composition and the route in which muscle mass is accrued. In this case, we show that muscle strength, both overall and relative to muscle mass, is a more potent predictor of cognitive outcomes rather than the amount of fat-free mass.
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Slower respiration rate is associated with higher self-reported well-being…

“This study provides initial evidence for RR as a potential biomarker of self-reported well-being in the context of wellness training. We found a similar pattern in novice groups following short-term training, and in meditators with a long-term, lifetime practice on the order of 9900 total hours of practice—slower RR was associated with better self-reported well-being in terms of mental and physical health.”

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I’m finishing this year with a focus on Olympic Weightlifting to improve my mobility and wrestling. I did an Instagram poll a while ago and this book by Greg Everett (@catalystathletics) came highly recommended as “the bible” and I was pleased to see back cover comments from trusted sources like Robb Wolf and Dan John. I’d be remiss if I didn’t also give a quick shout out to Zack Telander (@coach_zt) and Squat University (@squat_university) for having a ton of great content in this area as well.

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