How Exercise Helps Brain Function

We consistently and constantly remind our patients that exercise is vital for various reasons: maintaining healthy habits, improving mental health, improving mobility and reducing chances at various problems that occur with a life style that lacks physical activity. Well, surprise! Exercise also helps with brain function and here are a few examples:

Increases Concentration and Focus

Exercise is a great way to help you stay focused. Try going for a 20-30 minute walk before a lecture/seminar or before you have a task to accomplish that requires focus.

Helps with Creative Thinking

Creativity is fueled by a healthy imagination which starts with a healthy brain. Children are a great example. They’re young, active and filled with energy. And this is why their creative energy is off the charts. Not only children, but a lot of creative types have stated that exercise has helped them with their artistic journey.

Slows Cognitive Decline

To slow cognitive decline, your exercise does not have to be difficult. 30-45 minutes of walking 3-4 times a week can help reduce mental wear and tear and delay the onset of dementia. It’s also been proven that people who do not have an active lifestyle are twice as likely as people who regularly walk to develop diseases such as Alzheimer’s. And if walking bores you, try something different – dance, yoga, or kickboxing!

As we are all aware, sitting and not being active leads to problems with your physical health, but now that you know it can affect brain function, get up and get moving.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21741129

https://www.marksdailyapple.com/why-these-nine-famous-thinkers-walked-so-much/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3581819/