Most of us have heard the saying "use it, or lose it," in the context of brain health. There are many games and products on the market to improve the brain's functioning by keeping memory, and cognitive skills sharp. However, do not underestimate the power of physical exercise, it has been proven again and again to be essential for improving and maintaining brain health.
Brain Benefits of Exercise
-Improves circulation and brings oxygen in to the brain. Ever heard of walking to "clear your head?"
-Increased breathing and heart rate sends more blood to the brain, enhancing energy production and waste removal.
-Studies with elderly patients show that walking will improve memory, learning ability, concentration and abstract reasoning.
-Decreases chances of cognitive decline
-Those of us who wiggle their fingers and toes before getting out of bed in the morning, activate nerves that stimulate the brain and internal organs. This helps us to feel more alert and active first thing in the morning.
-Exercisers have better "executive functioning." This includes planning, organizing, and the ability to take on many intellectual tasks simultaneously.
-Contrary to popular belief, cognitive decline is not inevitable. A 25 year old brain has a similar amount of brain cells compared to a 75 year old. Running has been found to boost brain cell survival.
-Exercise improves and even cures, mental illness such as depression, and anxiety. Not to mention exercise is an instant mood lifter and is an immediate cure to a bad day, headache and stress.
After reading all of the benefits to brain health though exercise, how could you not want to workout for your brain? Exercise is more than looking good, it improves your life in every single way. Start the campaign for a better brain by adding a walk after your chess game or memory puzzle.
Kaleena Lawless
HTML Ready Article. Click on the "Copy" button to copy into your clipboard
