The Emotional Benefits of Exercise

Neuroscience research contains a plethora of quantitative information regarding the emotional benefits of exercise. Engaging in regular exercise that amounts to at least two to three hours per week has shown to significantly improve an individual’s emotional and physical well-being, as well as enhance cognitive abilities. These beneficial effects occur because when we exercise, the brain releases neurotransmitters such as dopamine, serotonin and norepinephrine which are known to elevate mood and increase energy. In addition, exercise assists in reducing physical symptoms of stress, such as:

• headaches

• muscle aches

• compromised immune system

• high blood pressure

• hypertension

Recovery from Depression

Regular physical activity from walking to rigorous house-cleaning has been shown to increase the recovery rate of those suffering from depression. Depression correlates with low levels of serotonin and norepinephrine and exercising activates the sympathetic nervous system which increases the amount of these neurotransmitters being released in the brain. Also, exercising increases levels of BDNF, a protein contributing to the growth of specific kinds of nerve cells, which stimulates serotonin production. This is called the “serotonin-BDNF loop” and acts as a natural mood enhancer when it is activated by exercise.

Endorphins and Exercise

Considered the body’s naturally produced answer to ibuprofen, endorphins are hormone-like chemicals which are released when the body experiences pain, such as the kind of muscle ache and burning that is generated when someone is vigorously exercising. So that the individual is protected from the detrimental effect of pain, endorphins create feelings of well-being and sometimes euphoria, depending on the intensity of the exercise. Thus, being more than moderately physically active can stimulate the release of endorphins and cause someone who is depressed to feel happier and more cognitively alert. In addition, research has found that the best type of exercise to enhance mood and increase levels of energy is aerobics because of its vigorous regimen and emphasis on cardiovascular activities.

Yoga is another exercise which has emotional benefits centering on the reductions of stress, anxiety, and depression. If you are suffering from depression, try exercising for several days in a row and find out how much better you will feel simply by moving!

Looking for a good divorce lawyer, try Jim Ross attorney at law.