Need another reason to be active? Regular exercise doesn’t just build a strong body, it also builds a strong brain. Here’s why exercise is so important for our brain!
Brain Power
We know that exercise elevates your heart rate, which is beneficial for your cardiovascular health. But did you know that the same elevated heart rate also delivers oxygen rich blood to the brain. This in turn aids in the growth of brain cells. Additionally, a recent study has shown that exercise promotes growth factors of new connections between cells, therefore increasing brain plasticity.
Runner’s High
They don’t call it a runner’s high for nothing. It turns out that regular physical activity also makes us feel good. One of the main reasons is that exercise releases euphoric hormones, while also suppressing stress-inducing hormones. This not only helps reduce anxiety and depression, but studies have also found that it improves cell growth in the hippocampus which is responsible for memory and learning.
Sleep
It’s been known for some time that regular exercise improves sleep. Anyone who has had a bad night’s sleep can appreciate the importance of sleep for overall well being. In fact, sleep plays an essential role in promoting good brain function and health. Maintaining a proper sleep schedule allows your brain to perform essential housekeeping. While you sleep, your body is able to clear out toxins that accumulate while you are awake. It is also a chance for your brain to learn and create new memories and improve your ability to concentrate.