Physical exercise improves our overall mental well-being byboosting energyand mood and combating stress, anxiety, and depression.
During exercise, our brain releases chemicals such as endorphins, endocannabinoids, and dopamine, explains Tipping.
The experience of this is sometimes known as a “runners-high”.
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In the short term, this means you may feel more motivated, energized, and revitalized.
Studies show that exercise can also improve some mental health issues, potentially improving symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Additionally, it helped them improve their flexibility and balance, Tipping states.
Positive Effects Over Time
Exercise helps your brain in long-term ways as well.
Research shows that physical exercise positively impacts cognitive function and can even counteract some of the impacts of aging.
When your body gets in motion, it elevates your heart rate.
It also may increases the size of differentparts of the brain.
This happens primarily through neurogenesis and angiogenesis.
Your brain, in turn, can function more efficiently.
Exercise helps enhance attention, learning, and memory and can improve many aspects ofthinking.
Your brain on exercise is more alert, more engaged, and healthier.
Statista.Share of Respondents Who Exercise At Least Three Times a Week in the United States as of Fall 2023.
Mahindru A, Patil P, Agrawal V.Role of physical activity on mental health and well-being: a review.Cureus.
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