Physical Activity Benefits Your Mood, Brain and Body

We all know that exercise can make us feel good, but did you know that it can also benefit your brain and body in many ways?

Here are just a few of the benefits of exercise beyond improving your mood:

Feel Good Hormones – Endorphins and Serotonin

When you exercise, your body releases endorphins and serotonin, two chemicals that can make you feel happier and more relaxed. Endorphins are known as the body's natural painkillers, while serotonin helps regulate mood, appetite, and sleep. By increasing these chemicals in your body, exercise can help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression.

Pumps Blood in Brain – Think More Clearly

Physical activity also helps improve blood flow to your brain, which can help you think more clearly and improve your memory. When you exercise, your heart pumps more blood to your brain, delivering vital oxygen and nutrients that help support brain function. Studies have shown that regular exercise can even help reduce the risk of developing dementia and Alzheimer's disease.

Activates Nerve Cells in Brain

In addition to improving blood flow, exercise can also help activate nerve cells in your brain. When you exercise, your brain produces a protein called brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which helps stimulate the growth of new nerve cells and improve communication between existing cells. This can help improve your brain function, including your ability to learn, remember, and problem-solve.

Connecting with People When Outside

Exercise is also a great way to connect with people when you're outside. Whether you're going for a walk, jog, or bike ride, you're likely to see other people exercising too. By engaging with others, you can build social connections and improve your overall sense of well-being.

Improves Sleep

Exercise can also improve your sleep, which is essential for your overall health and well-being. Regular physical activity can help you fall asleep faster, sleep more deeply, and wake up feeling more rested. It can also help regulate your body's natural sleep-wake cycle, which can help you maintain good sleep habits over time.

Reduces Risk of Illness

Finally, exercise can help reduce your risk of developing many chronic diseases, including heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and some types of cancer. Regular physical activity can help improve your heart health, strengthen your immune system, and lower inflammation in your body, all of which can help reduce your risk of developing these and other illnesses.

Conclusion

Exercise not only lifts mood but also offers many other benefits to your brain and body. By engaging in regular physical activity, you can improve your mental and physical health, build social connections, and reduce your risk of developing chronic diseases. So why not get moving today?

About Anne

Anne has been a qualified Clinical Reflexologist since 2000, starting her studies in 1999. She has been a member of the Reflexology Association of Australia (RAoA) ever since.

She is still passionate about Reflexology as she has seen wonderful benefits experienced by clients and still offers private treatments from her home clinic in Coolangatta, QLD, Australia. Anne’s mission is to support your health and wellness from today to well into the future.