Science-Backed Movement for Holistic Well-being
Founder Yana Nakhimova, PhD Dr. Yana Nakhimova, Ph.D. in Social and Behavioral Health Science, is an expert in understanding the social and psychological factors that influence healthy behaviors. She designs innovative programs that empower individuals to make positive changes in their mindset, behavior, and well-being. At 20 years old, Yana created her first program aimed at reducing drug use among youth for the Russian Federal Service. Her PhD research focused on identifying specific groups by drug type and measuring the impact of their experiences on behavioral strategies. Through this, she uncovered cognitive distortions that opened new avenues for enhancing public health programs. Her groundbreaking work has earned her over 10 national awards and opportunities to serve as a visiting researcher in Europe and the United States. Beyond academia, Yana has a deep passion for movement. Over the years, she has explored a wide range of techniques, observing fitness enthusiasts, yogis, dancers, athletes, and more. She noticed a critical gap: many practitioners suffered injuries and lacked a scientific understanding of exercise. Existing movement practices often failed to holistically address all aspects of life — physical, emotional, cognitive, and social. In 2016, when her father suffered a second stroke that immobilized his left side, Yana turned to neuroscience to aid his recovery. This experience deepened her understanding of the body-brain connection and inspired her to integrate insights from various scientific fields into movement practices. Can we create a program that protects both body and brain health? Can we develop an approach that motivates people to move more, to play more, and improve their well-being at any age? Driven by this curiosity, Yana pioneered the Body Mind Method — an integrated, science-based approach that enhances physical, emotional, social, and mental health through movement. Her method emphasizes the vital role of movement in promoting overall well-being and offers innovative pathways to integrate traditional and modern health and wellness practices. In November 2023, Dr. Nakhimova was awarded a Green Card as a recognized scientist. Now based in San Francisco, she is dedicated to expanding her school, with the mission of educating professionals and empowering individuals and organizations to redefine the role of movement and the body in achieving full potential and sustainable well-being. |
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