There’s a lot of research out there that says brain function is improved by brain exercises. For example, a retired person who keeps his or her brain active through puzzles or other thinking activities is much less likely to develop dementia, Alzheimer’s, and similar conditions leading to cognitive decline.But beyond working the brain, there’s more and more research indicating that not only is using the brain important, but exercising the body. In fact, researchers have shown that those who exercise their bodies on a regular basis think more clearly and quickly, learn faster, and are less prone to depression and thinking disorders of the brain. They’ve also found that those who exercise tend to have more resiliency and can bounce back from brain injuries, including stroke, more rapidly than those who do not exercise.
Some researchers hypothesize that the process of exercise helps improve the body’s ability to protect the brain. Because the brain requires a very stable supply of oxygen and blood glucose, and the body works hard to protect it, especially when supplies are limited (such as during aerobic exercise).
It’s also theorized that constant motion over an extended period of time, such as 30-minute of aerobic activity, actually helps to improve brain function through the release of growth factors. This occurs when electrical activity in the brain builds up from constant motion (because the brain needs to keep track of the position of each part of the body). The release of growth factor helps strengthen and grow the neurons of the brain, improving not only physical coordination but overall brain function.
So get out there and challenge your body. You’ve got a lot to gain from a moderate exercise program, including physical, mental, and even emotional improvements to your overall health.
