Get Moving! Get Smart!
Thursday, May 31, 2012 - 10:06
It’s common knowledge that physical exercise is good for our general health, but did you know there's another advantage to proper exercise and nutrition? It’s good for your brain.
Aerobic exercise increases the amount of oxygen in the blood and studies on rats have shown that neurons (the brain's nerve cells responsible for communication) operate better when they get more oxygen. So, if you think you’re going to get smarter sitting in front of your computer or watching television, think again.
Movement and exercise increase breathing and heart rate so that more blood flows to the brain, enhancing energy production. In fact studies have shown that moving your body can help:
- Minimize symptoms of depression
- Combat mental decline
- Increase memory function
- Improve concentration
If you want to give your brain a regular boost, any kind of exercise will help. Even mild exercise, such as a daily walk or yoga can improve your brain health.
Knowledge of the effects of exercise on the body and mind continues to grow and in doing so, it helps to guide the development of new therapies to improve our general quality of life. There seems to be little downside to a moderate aerobic exercise program; with the approval of your health professional, of course.
References from the SIRC Collection:
