What are 3 ways that exercise can affect your brain?
How exercise affects the brain – BYU Life Sciences Exercise feeds the brain. Exercise increases blood flow to the brain, Exercise secures priceless memories. People hold their memories dear, yet, in reality, we only remember a fraction of our lives, Exercise lowers stress impact, Life Science Lifestyle: connecting you to science
Strength Training and Mental Health: How Exercise Affects the Brain
Exercise has long been known to have significant positive effects on physical health. But research suggests that strength training can also improve mental health and well-being. Spending just a few minutes exercising can lift mood, reduce stress, improve concentration and sharpen memory.
Strength training has many benefits for the brain. Studies have found that lifting weights can boost heart rate, which increases blood flow throughout the body, including the brain. This improved circulation brings more oxygen, glucose and other nutrients to the brain, resulting in increased alertness and focus.
In addition, strength training helps to release endorphins, hormones which are known to have a calming effect on a person’s emotional state. This can help to reduce feelings of stress, anxiety and depression.
Strength training can also help boost self-confidence and body image. This can lead to improved mental health as individuals feel better about themselves.
Strength training has also been found to help improve memory and concentration. This is likely due to the increased blood and oxygen flow to the brain as well as the improved neural connections that result from regular physical activity.
Finally, strength training can help to improve sleep. Regular physical activity helps to regulate hormones in the body which can lead to more restful and better quality sleep. This can in turn help to reduce stress and improve mood.
In conclusion, engaging in strength training regularly can help to both physically and mentally. From increased focus and improved memory to reduced stress and improved sleep, the benefits of strength training on mental health are numerous. So if you’re looking to improve your mental health, try getting involved in a strength training program and see how you benefit.