How exercise helps your brain

       We often hear that exercise is one of the things we can do to improve our mental health.  It isn’t uncommon for us to disregard this information due to our busy lives, disbelief, or lack of interest.  While we’re often indifferent to the benefits of using exercise as a tool for mental health, studies show that active individuals are less depressed than inactive people.  Research also indicates that regular exercise can be used to treat and maybe even prevent anxiety.  

So, what is it about exercise that helps our brain?  There are multiple factors that can contribute to the effectiveness of exercise.  These factors exist on a physiological, psychological, and social level.  

1. When our bodies are healthy and active, communication between the brain and the body is in better in tune to handle our emotions.  In the primitive days our bodies were designed to deal with stress and fear by either running or fighting, so it makes sense that exercise can aid us in dealing with anxiety and stress.  
2. Biologically speaking, endorphins and BDNF (Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor) increase in our brain leaving us feeling somewhat euphoric because BDNF has a protective and reparative trait that affects our neurons. So in essence, endorphins and BDNF make us feel good! The somewhat scary part is that they have a very similar and addictive behavior like morphine, heroine or nicotine. The only difference? Well, it’s actually good for us. 
3. Exercise can also work to help us feel better about ourselves and our bodies which often contributes to healthier and more confident social interactions.

When starting an exercise routine, go slow.  It’s important to not overwhelm yourself or sustain injuries.  Get a feel for what your body can do and pay attention to your mental status when you’re done exercising.  Be mindful of what feels best for your body and your brain and use that as a guide for creating a routine for yourself.  

Written by: Amanda Furca, Graduate Level Intern, Loring Therapy LLC

loringtherapy.com

Edited by Charity M. Loring, LMSW

Adapted from the American Psychological Association Article,

 “The Exercise Effect,” by Kirsten Weir

http://www.apa.org/monitor/2011/12/exercise.aspx