Introduction
Have you ever noticed that you feel better on the days you get some movement in? Personally, I find my day is more focused, and my mood is better when I take some time in the morning to stretch my body, do a gym workout, or do some yoga. The relationship between physical movement and mental well-being is scientifically backed, and the great thing is it doesn’t matter what movement you do!
In the context of brain health, movement refers to any activity that gets your body moving, such as walking, running, dancing, swimming, or playing sports.
Movement helps to keep your brain healthy by:
- Supporting blood flow to the brain
- Stimulation of new brain cell production
- Strengthening of the connections between brain cells
- Supporting a balanced response to stress
- Promoting mood
- Promoting sleep
- Impacting balance and coordination
- Impacting joint and bone health
The amount of movement needed for optimal brain health varies from person to person. However, most adults should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity each week.
Here are some tips for getting started with the movement for brain health:
- Find an activity that you enjoy. This will make it more likely that you will stick with it.
- Start slowly and gradually increase the time you spend moving each day.
- Find a friend or family member to move with. This can help you stay motivated.
- Make movement a part of your daily routine. Schedule time for movement each day and stick to it.
- Don’t be afraid to try new things. Many different types of movement are good for brain health. Experiment until you find something that you enjoy.
Note that nowhere here did I say “exercise.” Many people have had diet culture shoved in their faces enough that any encouragement to exercise is met with resistance and feeling judged. This is about movement. Moving your body is the point; it doesn’t have to be associated with exercise. We aren’t talking about meeting goals; we aren’t talking about losing weight or counting calories. This is about finding joy in movement, supporting your brain, and doing things that make you happy and feel good. Find a joyful way to move today!
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Related Blogs:
- The Gut-Brain Connection
- Herbs for Brain Health
- Stretching Your Mind for Desk Workers
- The Neuromuscular System
About the Author:
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Aspen Anderson The Weaver of Fates (AKA Project Manager and Director of Training) has been expertly writing, managing projects, directing training, and organizing for RidgeCrest since 2017. Aspen keeps us well organized, on task, and moving forward. She describes herself as an empath, introvert, grounded, and mother. Her favorite herb is Ginseng, and she proudly recommends our AdrenaLove®. Learn more about our team here. |
