Ten‑Minute Walk Improves Executive Function

A small fNIRS study found that just 10 minutes of slow running (roughly a brisk walk) shortened Stroop reaction times, increased left lateral prefrontal cortex activation, and lifted mood. Head‑movement (acceleration) during the bout correlated with mood gains, suggesting simple biomechanical features of walking/running matter for mental benefits. — If replicated, this implies extremely low‑effort exercise prescriptions (10‑minute walking breaks) could be a cheap, scalable tool for schools, workplaces, and public‑health messaging to boost cognition and mood.