The power of exercise
How exercise can improve your focus, cognitive ability and make you happier.
How it works
Exercise has been proven to increase cell generation in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex. The hippocampus is the part of the brain responsible for retaining long term memories, and strengthening it can improve mood, energy and focus. The prefrontal cortex is responsible for your personality, focus and decision making. By exercising, neurogenesis is stimulated in these areas of the brain increasing volume in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex. Exercise also causes increases in certain neurochemicals such as serotonin, dopamine and noradrenaline.
The Benefits of Exercise
Exercise improves the function of the brain and can also strengthen it against neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s or dementia. There are immediate effects experienced shortly after a workout such as boosts in mood or energy, but also very beneficial long term effects. These long term effects include protection against neurodegenerative diseases and lower susceptibility to depression or anxiety. Exercise has also been found to alleviate symptoms such as low self-esteem and social withdrawal.
In Norway, a study containing 33,000 participants found that compared to people that don’t exercise, people who exercise at least once a week had a 44% lower chance of developing depression. They also found that if everyone exercised at least once a week, 12% of all depression cases could be avoided.
List of benefits
better sleep
Improved endurance
Stress relief
Improved mood
Increased energy
Reduced tiredness
Increased alertness
Weight loss
Reduced cholesterol
Reduced risk of various illnesses such as cardiovascular disease
How to do it
The best way to exercise is seemingly different for everyone based on their physical condition. However, 3-4 days a week of aerobic exercise that increases the heart rate for at least 30 minutes is the most beneficial. Aerobic exercises such as jogging, swimming, cycling, walking, and dancing, show the most evident reductions in anxiety and depression.
