Welcome to our special segment where we explore the powerful connection between physical activity and mental well-being. Today, we’re diving into an exciting event that embodies this philosophy: the International Motion Impacts Emotion Conference, hosted by the AB Korkor Foundation. This conference is a direct extension of the foundational belief that movement can revolutionize mental health care, a belief deeply rooted in Dr. Adel Korkor’s personal journey.

Dr. Korkor, the founder of the AB Korkor Foundation, experienced firsthand how movement impacted his own emotions. He battled severe anxiety and panic attacks for years. Despite traditional medical diagnoses and prescriptions that didn’t work for him due to side effects, he discovered the profound relief that running provided. He realized that by physically challenging his heart through running, he could manage his panic and anxiety, leading to better sleep, improved concentration, and a significant reduction in panic attacks without medication. This personal transformation ignited his passion to establish a mental health foundation focused on raising awareness about mental health, removing stigma, and highlighting the fact that physical activity truly helps mental health. He even took on the “crazy challenge” of organizing a 5K run/walk in all 50 U.S. states in 50 consecutive days, which he completed for six consecutive years, involving over 5,000 participants who shared similar stories of motion impacting their emotion.

His experience, supported by growing scientific evidence showing how aerobic exercise can increase brain size and neuron connections, and positively impact areas like the frontal and temporal lobes where emotions and concentration are centered, underpins the mission of the foundation. Exercise, especially aerobic activity, is supported by strong evidence to be helpful in conditions like anxiety, panic disorders, depression, PTSD, and even certain neurological diseases.

Host: And now, this foundational philosophy culminates in the Motion Impacts Emotion Conference. This groundbreaking event is set to take place on September 27th and 28th, 2025, at the Milwaukee Marriott West in Waukesha, Wisconsin, with virtual attendance options also available.

This isn’t just any conference; it’s an international gathering bringing together experts, innovators, and advocates from around the world to explore evidence-based research and practical solutions that connect movement with mental wellness. The theme, “Movement for the Mind: Advancing Mental Health Through Physical Activity,” truly captures its essence.

Who should attend? The conference is designed for a diverse audience, including:

• Physicians, Nurses, and Healthcare Workers who want a deeper understanding of the mind-body connection.
• Psychiatrists and Psychologists looking to create more effective, integrated treatment plans.
• Counselors, Social Workers, and Therapists aiming for improved client outcomes by understanding the link between physical and mental health.
• Physical Therapists and Fitness Enthusiasts seeking knowledge to address psychological barriers and improve patient motivation.
• Neuropsychologists interested in the latest research and trends in the field.
• Students, who can even receive a special discounted rate.
• And truly, anyone looking to explore resources and techniques for maintaining mental well-being, recognizing that investing in mental health is an investment in overall quality of life.

Attendees can look forward to cutting-edge insights on the role of physical activity in mental health prevention and care, practical tools and solutions for clinicians, therapists, educators, and policymakers, and the opportunity to earn CME credits/certification for professional development.

A major highlight of the conference is “An Evening with Dr. Peter Gray,” a renowned psychologist and author. He will explore the vital connection between play, autonomy, and mental health in his compelling talk, Mother Nature’s Prescription for Mental Wellbeing: The Power of Play and Other Self-Directed Activity. Dr. Gray will draw on decades of research to illustrate how free play and self-directed learning are essential for healthy emotional and cognitive development, offering timely perspectives on restoring balance and joy in our lives amidst rising anxiety and depression.

The 2025 agenda features a wide array of fascinating presentations. For example, on Day One, you can hear from Art Kramer on the effects of exercise on cognitive and brain health across the lifespan, Rebecca Hasson discussing physical activity in youth emotion regulation, and Francine Darroch on designing trauma- and violence-informed physical activity programs. Day Two includes sessions like Seth Himelhoch on behavioral activation and the brain’s reward system, Michelle Pebole on bringing trauma-informed practice into exercise settings, and Jacob Meyer exploring resistance exercise as a therapeutic tool for depression. There will also be guided mindful movement reset yoga sessions led by Cheri Cope.

Host: This conference is a unique opportunity to gain insights into the intersection of movement, brain health, and psychological wellness. It underscores the powerful link that Dr. Korkor himself experienced and that is now widely supported by research: that regular exercise can reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety by releasing endorphins, the body’s natural mood elevators. It’s a chance to learn from global experts, connect with a network of professionals, and contribute to the ongoing transformation of mental health through movement.

Don’t miss the chance to be part of this impactful event. You can register by July 25th to take advantage of the Early Bird Special and secure your spot at a discounted rate. Students, remember there’s a special discounted rate of $35 for the first 25 students, increasing to $50 thereafter.

To register and learn more about the International Motion Impacts Emotion Conference, visit conference.abkf.org. Join the AB Korkor Foundation in championing the transformative power of movement for mental health.