Published June 16, 2022
Mental health is not the first reason people consider exercise. Most likely we choose to play sports because they are fun to play with friends. Newcomers might exercise for physical purpose explained by their doctor. Regardless of activity motive, physical training balances cognitive health. Here are 4 ways physical fitness affects the brain.
1. Weight Control
Physical attributes top the main reason people begin or continue exercising throughout life. Someone might have other health objectives, but what we see is evident.
Body changes take time, but the mind has less worry following a plan. The amount of time exercising is small compared to controlling the brain most of the day. We spend many hours thinking about the foods to ingest or planning for a workout that day. Following plans reduces stress which is a mental battle.
2. Quality of Life
Exercise eases daily tasks by enhancing the body to perform basic movements. There is less worry knowing you have the ability to complete basic actions. This continues by following an active routine as we age.
Learning and advancing skill levels raises one’s mood by stepping closer to a goal. An active lifestyle broadens opportunities by discovering new activities. You can go hiking with friends or play with your kids on the playground. Any new activity from before allows you to be closer and socialize more with others.
3. Trauma Relief
Concentrating on your body instead of a daily task for a period of time lowers stress. Whether you had a traumatic accident or dropped something, anxiety enters. The sensation of dribbling a ball or controlling a squat repetition, for instance, orders the mind to pause other worries. The brain relieves anxiety through finding another focus such as the ball or weight to push. Completing a workout achieves a better body and the mind develops more pride along the way.
4. Sleep Quality
The increased oxygen and hormones released from exercise when you start affects sleep. Positive emotions from stepping towards a goal aid the body to rest. The body reaches a high sleep stage level faster to recover muscle and energy used during the day. The muscles repair and the mind recuperates for another day.
These 4 ways physical fitness affects the brain are from personal experience. Brain functioning supports exercise no matter the time of day. Self-esteem is higher from workout consistency. Motivation generates from improved health and the ability to achieve small goals. Treat the body, the mind and spirit for this is your life!
Disclaimer
All information provided on Mente Soul is for informational purposes only and is not intended to substitute professional medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment. Always seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare provider before undertaking a new health regimen. Do not disregard medical advice or delay seeking medical advice because of information you read on Mente Soul. Do not start or stop any medications without speaking to your medical or mental health provider. We can’t take any responsibility for the results of your actions, and any harm or damage you suffer as a result of the use, or non-use of the information available on Mente Soul. Read more at https://www.mentesoul.com/disclaimer
Sources:
- Di Liegro, C., Schiera, G., Proia, P. & Di Liegro, I. (2019, September, 17) Physical Activity and Brain Health.Genes(10090720). https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4425/10/9/720/htm
- Stibich, M. (2020, February, 4). Cognitive Impairment Risk Factors for Men and Women. Verywellmind. https://www.verywellmind.com/preventing-cognitive-impairment-2224108
- Robinson, L., Segal, J. Ph.D., Smith, M. HelpGuide. https://www.helpguide.org/articles/healthy-living/the-mental-health-benefits-of-exercise.htm