Page 60 - Mind Games The Aging Brain and How to Keep it Healthy

44 • Chapter 2

Figure 2-11 Location of spatial ability in both hemispheres
(right dominant)

for men’s normal levels that is optimum. Too high on the
men’s scale or too low on the women’s scale reduces the
spatial abilities. An individual’s spatial abilities also fluctu-
ate during the normal hormonal cycles for women and men
(testosterone levels for men are lower in the spring than in
the fall). 24

Bodily-Kinesthetic Intelligence
Not often regarded as an intelligence, body intelligence is
the ability to use the body in highly differentiated and
skilled ways and the ability to use other objects skillfully. 25
Examples include acting, the skilled movements of the
hands and fingers of an instrumentalist, ballet, and gym-
nastics. Figure 2-12 shows the primary areas for motor skills
and control.
The Supplementary Motor Area (SMA) predetermines the
general path of a movement or series of movements. Even as