5 Exercises that Benefit the Brain

The most common knowledge about exercising is its benefits to your physical body. Exercise keeps the body healthy and fit. It reduces the risk of life-threatening diseases such as heart attacks and diabetes. Overall, this is a must if you want to live a long life.

Aside from its positive effects on the physical body, exercise has also shown its benefits to the brain. It ensures that your brain is in top condition to perform its tasks unfailingly. Your brain is the most important organ in your body for it controls not just your actions and movements but your reactions and emotions as well.

Positive Effects of Exercise on the Brain

Many still consider the brain as one of the greatest mysteries in science. Even if there are countless studies and information about the brain, scientists are still astonished at how much there is to know about it. Its role in learning, judgment, thinking, emotions and many other complex functions are still being studied up to now.

1. It nurtures the growth of new brain cells.

One of the most mind-blowing benefits of exercise to the brain is it promotes neurogenesis. Exercise helps in producing new brain cells that improves cognitive functions such as problem-solving, reasoning and remembering. In addition, it enhances the functions of synapses between neurons so that brain cells can communicate effectively.

2. It slows down aging and neurodegenerative diseases.

Most people are afraid to grow old because their brain’s cognitive functions slowly deteriorate. This is when you start to be forgetful and lose focus. But with regular exercise, neurodegenerative diseases like dementia and Alzheimer’s can be delayed or prevented.

3. It promotes better concentration.

Scientists found out that regular exercise has immediate effects on improving focus and concentration. You become more alert to the things happening around you. Your reaction time is enhanced so that you can respond quickly and without hesitation during emergencies.

4. It decreases symptoms of depression and anxiety.

The famous line of Elle Woods in Legally Blonde is true. Exercise gives you endorphins. Endorphins make you happy. Happy people do not think of committing crimes or living an unpleasant lifestyle. There is scientific evidence that strongly claims the benefits of exercise in lifting your mood.

Recommended Physical Exercises for your Brain

On top of doing mind exercises like doing puzzles, answering riddles, learning a foreign language or listening to music, there are a few physical exercises that boost your brain health and power.

1. Yoga

One of the most popular exercises that benefit the brain is yoga. Here you will learn certain meditation procedures and exercise postures that aid in relaxation. Yoga cleanses your soul and body and in turn, it improves your memory and your brain’s vitality.

2. Dancing

One study on seniors for more than 20 years presented that dancing reduces the risk of dementia. Many believe that dancing loosens your stiff joints and muscles making you agile and flexible. People who found enjoyment in dancing are more energized to do other activities and chores.

3. Tai Chi

Not many people know what Tai Chi is. It is best known as meditation in motion. It is a good brain exercise because it combines focus and movement. In Tai Chi, you must quickly think of the next movement even while your body is active. Several studies on the effect of Tai Chi showed that it increases brain size and enhances your brain power.

4. Aerobic Exercises

Aerobic exercises increase blood flow to your brain. Also, doing it regularly can boost the size of the brain’s hippocampus which is responsible for verbal memory and learning. A simple set of aerobic exercises can already do wonders to your brain.

5. Running/ Walking

If you are not a big fan of yoga or Tai Chi, you can always opt for running or walking. You do not have to spend money on doing this. All you need is to allocate at least 30 minutes every day to go walking or running around your neighborhood.

Losing Brain Power

Sometimes, even at a young age, people seem to be forgetful and easily lost focus in doing their work and other responsibilities. Young age does not always guarantee a strong and healthy brain. You need to take steps in ensuring that your body and mind are always in good shape.

However, you cannot tell when your brain loses its power and energy. There will be moments and instances in your life that will challenge you on how well you can handle your thoughts and emotions. No matter how tough you think you are, certain situations can lead you to feel depressed and anxious.

Mindshift Psychological Services opens its doors to people who are struggling with depression, anxiety and trauma. No amount of exercise can easily make you feel better once you are hit with these mental health problems. You need medical support and intervention to help you.

Visit our website to know more about us. If you wish to schedule an appointment, you may directly call us at (714)584-9700.