Date: November 22, 2024; March 21, 2025

Place: Mediterranean Food Studies, Torribera Mediterranean Center, Universitat de Barcelona

Reflection on the activity: This lecture focused on the psychological benefits of the Mediterranean diet, exploring how dietary habits influence mental health and cognitive function. The presentation included evidence-based insights on the positive impact of Mediterranean dietary patterns on mood regulation and the prevention of neurodegenerative diseases. Attendees gained practical knowledge on incorporating Mediterranean principles into their daily lives to enhance mental well-being.

Date: September 24, 2024

Place: Casa Golferichs, Barcelona

Reflection on the activity: This workshop explored the impact of diet on mental health, highlighting how dietary habits can influence cognitive and emotional well-being. We presented scientific evidence on how up to 33% of psychiatric and neurological conditions may be influenced by nutrition. The interactive session encouraged participants to reflect on their eating habits and introduced the key principles of the Mediterranean diet, emphasizing local and seasonal food, mindful eating, and the social aspects of culinary traditions. Participants left with practical tools and scientific knowledge to make healthier food choices, aimed at enhancing mental well-being and overall quality of life.

Date: September 28, 2024

Place: Vil·la Urània, Barcelona

Reflection on the activity: In this workshop, co-hosted with Ana Hernández Sauret, we introduced participants to the fascinating world of fNIRS (Functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy), a non-invasive neuroimaging technique. Through live demonstrations, we showcased how the brain reacts to cognitive and motor tasks, allowing the audience to observe real-time brain activity. The interactive format engaged attendees by encouraging them to guess which brain areas were activated during specific challenges. This experience not only raised awareness about cutting-edge neuroscience methods but also fostered curiosity about brain function and cognition.

Date: September 18-21, 2024

Place: Berlin, Germany

Reflection on the activity: Delivered a talk presenting the preliminary results of the project. The presentation was well-received, and it was a valuable opportunity to exchange ideas with professionals working at the intersection of music, arts, and health.

Date: July 3–5, 2024

Place: Porto, Portugal

Event: Global Neuropsychology Congress 2024

Reflection on the activity:

Presented two research posters at the Global Neuropsychology Congress 2024. The first poster, titled “The Role of Background Music in Attentional Networks in Parkinson’s Disease”, showcased preliminary findings from Experiment 5of my doctoral research, highlighting how music-induced mood and arousal states can modulate attentional performance in individuals with Parkinson’s Disease, using the ANT (Attentional Network Test) .

The second poster, “Efficacy of a Theatre-Based Intervention in Parkinson’s Disease”, summarized the results of a collaborative study evaluating the emotional and functional impact of theatre-based therapy in PD patients. Both presentations provided opportunities to engage with leading experts in neuropsychology and receive valuable feedback for further development of these research lines.