Positive Effects of Exercise On Your Brain

Mar 24, 20212 min read

On average, 80% of New Year's resolutions fail by the second week of February. Year

after year, many Americans put weight loss at the top of their New Year Resolution list. Of

course, committing to improving your physical health by losing weight is a good thing. The

deeper issue is that way too many people place self-worth solely in the number on the scale.

Unfortunately, many people think there's some connection between weight loss and

happiness. If only you could lose a few more pounds, you'd feel better - - right? Let's flip this

mindset! Instead of setting a weight loss goal, focus on things you can GAIN when it comes to

improving your mental and physical health through exercise. Here are a few things that happen

to your brain when you exercise.

Increased Blood Flow

Exercise increases blood flow throughout your body. Increased blood flow to your brain

can help improve your focus. Incorporating exercise into your daily routine can help produce

new brain cells that boost memory.

In addition to blood flow, exercise triggers the release of neurotransmitters like

dopamine, endorphins, serotonin, and glutamate, which can provide an instant mood boost! All

of these individual neurotransmitters play different roles. For example, dopamine is the "feel

good" hormone, whereas serotonin plays a big role in relaxation.

Moderate exercise can trigger growth factors that recycle your brain. One of the brain growth

factors associated with exercise is BDNF, which activates brain stem cells to convert into new

neurons. MRFs (Muscle Regulatory Factors) are activated during exercise for additional

brain-boosting benefits.

The good news is you don't need to train for a marathon to achieve the health benefits of

exercise. A short 20-minute walk or a jog around the neighborhood can have some amazing

effects on your overall health, wellness, and mood!

We’re here to help you breakthrough depression and move forward. Each patient who

walks through our door is given a comprehensive treatment plan based on their specific mental

health and physiological needs. We offer a variety of specialized services that

can help improve your mood and put you on the path to wellness. Don’t hesitate to reach out for

support.