Health / Health
Exercise for the mind
Hands up how many of you regular exercisers started out for reasons of an aesthetic nature?
Image by Ana Parker
60% of women and 34% of men hit the gym purely to look good. What keeps us exercising though? My abs are still firmly hidden under a comfortable layer of good living, but I still maintain a regular routine. The truth is, our waistline-shrinking intentions are often forgotten once we feel how good exercise makes us feel. This then becomes our primary motivator in getting our trainers on and working up a sweat.
Anxiety alleviation
is needed now More than ever
Physical activity releases endorphins, the ‘feel good’ chemical in our body. These guys are the reason that many GPs suggest moderate activity for people suffering anxiety disorders, stress and mild depression. Think of them as natures ‘pick-me-up’, boosting mood and promoting feelings of happiness. 30 Minutes walking is enough to call them to action and create a warm buzz the Ready Brek man would be proud of.
Energy boost
So, you burn energy to gain energy? Sounds crazy. Not so – giving your heart and lungs a workout makes your cardiovascular system more efficient, leaving you less likely to be floored by the time the five o’clock bell rings.
Memory matters
Want to ace your exams? Nail that presentation, or impress your mates at the next pub quiz? Yep, you’ve guessed it, get your sweat on to – and here’s the science bit – increase the cells in the part of your hippocampus, the part of your brain responsible for memory and learning.
Sweet dreams
If you find yourself tossing and turning in the wee small hours, worrying about what to wear to work the next day/if the kids are eating enough greens/the Ebola virus (just me?) then treat yourself to regular spells of activity for a sweet, slumber filled treat. Exercise has long been linked with better quality sleep and as long as you don’t do it too close to bedtime, you could be filling the room with Z’s before you can say ‘treadmill’.
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