There is a steadily growing body of research that indicates regular exercise is directly linked to improved brain health and function.
Several studies are making a strong case that brain health and function is directly linked to our level of wellbeing. Sedentary lifestyles and periods of high stress are not only damaging to the body’s level of function as a whole, but impede brain function. Connections between brain cells erode and certain areas of the brain actually shrink in proportion to the amount of stress we feel and during episodes of depression or anxiety. Regular exercise reverses this process by increasing levels of serotonin and nor-epinephrine (important neurotransmitters associated with positive thoughts and emotions). Regular exercise releases waves of neurochemicals and growth factors that bolster the brains infrastructure and helps establish new connections. Developing and maintaining the complex network of connections between brain cells is what differentiates a healthy brain from a less than healthy brain susceptible to memory loss, confusion, and dysfunction.
The most important neurotransmitters like IGF-1 (Insulin-like growth factor), VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) and BDNF (brain derived neurotrophic factor) are all positively affected by exercise and stimulate growth which improves brain function and therefore intelligence. Importantly, the research outlines that these effects occurs with an achievable amount of exercise. The recommended dose is 30-60 minutes per day at a level of intensity equal to 60% of your maximum heart rate. Further recommendations include the provision of variety in the types of exercise you participate in. Alternate activities and movements in the form of dance, swimming and yoga come highly recommended.
If you have pain or an injury or condition preventing you from exercising at the recommended level and accessing these benefits, let us help you. We can help you implement a rehab program that will put your injury or condition behind you and make you feel good about moving again.
