On today's episode, I am joined by Ruy Marra da Silva Jr., a distinguished neuroscientist, hang gliding instructor, and two-time Brazilian champion. Ruy is deeply committed to the belief in the unlimited capacity of human evolution, a philosophy that has guided his extensive research and innovative approach to mental health and personal development. He is currently part of the Biociences and Health Research Group at Fiocruz and the Laboratory of Advanced Neuroimaging and Psychophysiology at the UFRJ School of Medicine, where he is pursuing a master's degree focused on breathing and meditation for anxiety and depression.

In this conversation, we explore the impact of the environment on mental health and how living in a violent or vulnerable community can shape mental health and can potentially lead to Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Ruy shares his research on the impact of such environments and the benefits of social projects, particularly sports programs, in mitigating these effects and improving overall quality of life. We delve into his study conducted in Rocinha, one of Rio’s largest favelas, where he evaluated the impact of a Jiu Jitsu program on the quality of life, mental distress symptoms, and heart rate variability of its participants.

Ruy's work emphasises the importance of community and social projects in reducing PTSD symptoms and enhancing overall well-being. He discusses how the metaphor of ramp takeoff from his hang gliding experience applies to overcoming fear and the possibility of facing and conquering your fears. We cover the broader implications of understanding environmental impacts on stress levels, cognitive function, and mental health, highlighting how sports, social projects and positive community interventions can foster resilience, growth, and improve overall quality of life.

Join us as we dive into the profound connections between environment, mental health, and the transformative power of sports in this enlightening episode with Ruy Marra da Silva Jr.

To find out more about Ruy Marra da Silva you can check out his website below:

Website: https://www.respirecomciencia.com.br/

Research Paper: The impact of a violent community on mental health and the benefits of a sport program for social development

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35583853/

Instagram: ruymarra_equilibresuavida

Podcast Host - Fenella Phoebe

Instagram: fenellaphoebe

Music - Composed, performed and produced by Athena Octavia

https://www.athenaoctavia.com

https://www.instagram.com/athenaoctavia

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.