Welcome to the Mind In Movement Laboratory

The Mind in Movement Laboratory is located on the main campus of the University of Idaho, in Moscow, Idaho. We are associated with the Department of Psychology & Communication Studies, the Neuroscience Program, and the Graduate Program in Experimental Psychology with an emphasis on Human Factors.
The field of action research encompasses posture and movement and draws on methods from biomechanics, motor control, and psychology. Our work is inspired by the idea that cognitive factors are important for controlling action, and that, therefore, how people carry themselves can yield important insights about how they think.
A better understanding of the role of thought in action may lead to novel treatments for movement disorders such as Parkinson's disease, to better workplace design to reduce strain and injury, and to insights into how to reduce psychophysical problems associated with aging.
Latest News
February 2023
Dr. Jason Baer & Dr. Cohen published a paper based on Jason's dissertation research: Does neck flexion improve performance? Effects on reaction time depend on whether responses are expected
January 2023
Riley Hayes and Emma Griewe won an undergraduate research award for our project on the relation between postural tone and proprioception.
December 2022
We published a paper on the effects of postural instructions on balance in young adults in Gait & Posture.
November 2022
At the American Congress for Rehabilitation Medicine Conference in Chicago, we presented a poster; Poised for Parkinson's: Retention of benefits 6-7 months after Alexander technique synchronous online group course.
October 2022
Dr. Cohen's 2020 paper was featured in a video on the Alexander Technique.
July 2022
At the Alzheimer's Association International Conference in San Diego, we presented a poster; ‘Partnering with Poise’: Alexander technique online group classes are a promising interventon to decrease loss-of-self and increase agency for care partners of people living with dementia.
May 2022
Jason Baer gave a talk at the Northwest Biomechanics Symposium.At the 4th Pan American Parkinson's Disease and Movement Disorders Congress in Miami, Celeste Condie presented a poster; Poised for Parkinson’s: Adapting an in-person cognitive embodiment course to online delivery for people living with Parkinson's disease and their care partners.