Uuurrghhh, Exercise again!!
Can we not talk about this?
Lol…hold on!
… Stay with me for a few minutes
Did you know that Exercise (the one you’re running from) can enhance the health of your brain and your entire well-being?
Remember a time when you worked out?
It was probably tough and maybe even felt a little daunting in the moment.
But then, that feeling afterwards…a relief
That sense of accomplishment and the way your body felt – better, lighter perhaps?
You might not have been able to explain it then, but it definitely made you feel good, didn’t it?
Exactly!!
YOU FELT GOOD!
Well, that’s because “regular physical activity has been scientifically shown to improve how your brain functions, reduce feelings of stress and anxiety, and contribute to a greater sense of overall well-being.”.
So, what exactly does exercise do for your brain?
Think of exercise as a fantastic fertiliser for your amazing brain!
Let’s talk about some of them.
🧠Brain Gains: Exercise acts like a fertiliser for your brain, boosting your memory, making learning more efficient, and enhancing your problem-solving ability. Regular physical activity helps to strengthen the connections between your brain cells, leading to improved cognitive function.
😌 Chill Pill Effect: This is my favourite effect. Exercise helps regulate your body’s stress response, reducing the levels of stress hormones like cortisol. It also promotes the release of endorphins, natural mood boosters that can leave you feeling calmer and happier, better equipped to handle life’s challenges.
🌱 Enhanced Brain Health: Physical activity supports the growth of new brain cells (neurogenesis) and strengthens the connections between existing ones (neuroplasticity). This can contribute to a healthier, more resilient brain, potentially reducing the risk of age-related cognitive decline.
✨ Get More Done: It helps you get more done by increasing your dopamine, neurotransmitters that play a crucial role in attention, motivation, and focus levels, helping you to stay focused and driven. By engaging in regular physical activity, you may find it easier to concentrate, manage your time effectively, and boost your overall productivity.
😴 Sweet Dreams: Exercise helps you sleep better and deeper. I’m sure you’ve experienced this before – feeling sleepy after a workout… Such an amazing feeling. Experiencing that pleasant tiredness after a workout is a sign of exercise’s positive impact on sleep. Physical activity can help regulate your sleep-wake cycle, leading to more restful and deeper sleep, which is essential for optimal brain function and overall recovery.
Some effective exercises you can try
- Aerobic Exercise: These activities get your heart pumping and are excellent for brain health. Examples are running, cycling, swimming, and brisk walking. They increase blood flow to the brain, delivering vital oxygen and nutrients.
- Resistance Training: Lifting weights, using resistance bands, or engaging in bodyweight exercises not only strengthens your muscles but also has positive effects on cognitive function.
- Mind-Body Exercise: Practices like yoga, tai chi, pilates, and even meditation can improve focus, reduce stress, and enhance the connection between your mind and body.
The Small Amounts Count!
You don’t need to be an elite athlete to reap the brain-boosting benefits of exercise. Even small amounts of physical activity can make a difference:
- Walking: As little as a 30-minute walk every day improves cognitive function and mood.
- Stretching: Regular stretching not only increases flexibility but can also help reduce tension and stress, positively impacting your mental state.
- Light Exercise: Activities like gardening, dancing to music you enjoy, or gentle yoga can contribute to better brain health without requiring intense effort.
The best part? You don’t need a gym membership for these!
Tips for Getting Started
- Consult a professional coach before starting new exercises, especially if you have any underlying health conditions.
- Begin with short sessions (20-30 minutes) and gradually increase duration and intensity as you feel more comfortable.
- Search YouTube for fun dance and workout videos you can do in the comfort of your own home.
- Find activities you enjoy. The key to maintaining motivation and consistency. It makes exercise feel less like a chore and more like a rewarding part of your routine.
- Schedule workouts into your daily routine to help you stay consistent. Dedicating 15 minutes every morning is a great start!.
Remember, the benefits of exercise for your mind are just as real and rewarding as the physical ones. The initial push might feel like climbing a hill, but the view from the top – clearer thinking, brighter mood – is absolutely worth the effort!
