The Mind Benefits of Exercise
“Movement is a medicine for creating change in a person’s physical, emotional and mental states.” - Carol Welch
We normally think about the known benefits of exercise such as more energy, better sleep, controlling weight, building muscle and combating disease. These benefits are all great, but physical activity also provides many neurological benefits to boost our mood and cognitive abilities, such as learning, thinking, memory and focus. All of which are important for a happy, healthy life. Here are some of the neurological benefits of exercise:
Boost Moods
Ever wonder why you feel a buzz or happier after a workout? Exercise increases our level of dopamine, the neurotransmitter that helps us feel pleasure, satisfaction, and motivation. This is particularly beneficial for those who experience depression (which results from low dopamine levels) and studies have found that exercise can be as effective a treatment as antidepressants.
Decreases Stress and Anxiety
When we engage in physical activity, two of our body’s stress hormones - cortisol and norepinephrine - decrease. People who exercise regularly are more resistant to involuntary fight-or-flight responses to stressful situations. The physical exertion of a good workout allows our nervous system to become more efficient at handling stress.
Improves Memory, IQ, and Learning
Multiple studies have shown associations among school performance levels, academic achievement, and physical fitness. Even one bout of physical activity can increase focus and attention in children. MRI studies on healthy adults find the same results: significantly greater brain activation after just one session of exercise.
Promotes Growth of New Brain Cells
One of the most significant benefits of exercise is that it promotes neurogenesis, the creation of new brain cells, which is essential to cognitive function. When we exercise, our brain develops more complex neural pathways that contribute to better memory, task management, coordination, and planning. In lay-man’s terms, exercise makes us mentally sharper and more efficient.
Protects Against Aging and Neurodegenerative Diseases
Exercise can decrease our chances of developing dementia and neurodegenerative diseases in the future. While exercising won’t necessarily prevent or cure normal cognitive decline in aging, doing it consistently can help reduce it or delay its onset.
Regardless of our age or fitness level, exercise can make our brain healthier. Even if we have never worked out in our lives, it’s never too late to get started - and it doesn’t take much. While the recommended dose of exercise is five 30-minute sessions of physical activity a week, even a 10-minute daily session can be beneficial. Remember, every little bit counts. Even raking leaves, cleaning, gardening and walking the dog can help get us active. And if you like to dance, pump up the music at home and dance around the house - you will be boosting dopamine, reducing stress hormones, and burning calories without even feeling like its exercise!
