It’s a shocking fact: most Americans are experiencing brain shrinkage without even realizing it. Why? The answer is simple: A sedentary lifestyle that doesn’t prioritize exercise or physical activity, two factors that are vital for maintaining mental resilience.
The Brain-Exercise Connection
Exercise is essential for triggering the release of hormones called nerve growth factors, which play a crucial role in preserving overall brain health. Our bodies are designed for movement—our ancestors traveled six to 15 miles a day on foot, hunting and foraging for their next meal. Today, our lives are starkly different, with many people spending the majority of the day sitting at desks or dealing with health issues that limit mobility.
Over time, lack of movement causes our muscles to atrophy and joints to stiffen. More importantly, though, the brain doesn’t receive the signals required to generate these life-sustaining hormones, negatively impacting its overall health and size.
Prioritizing Daily Movement
So, how can you keep your brain from shrinking? The answer is straightforward: engage in daily physical activity. Of course, for individuals with multiple sclerosis, autoimmune diseases, or serious health challenges, this may seem difficult. However, it’s essential to recognize that there are plenty of resources and experts available to support you.
If you fall into this category, consider seeking a referral to a physical therapist who can create a custom-made program tailored to your unique needs. Such a program will emphasize essential stretches and strength-building exercises that ensure your body remains both strong and flexible.
Even if you don’t have any health issues, make a conscious effort to incorporate daily movement into your routine. This doesn’t mean you need to commit to hitting the gym every day, but you should set aside some time for stretching, walking, or other light activities that energize the body and mind.
The Benefits of Exercise for Brain Health
Research has shown that exercise facilitates improved memory, learning capabilities, and even mood stability by increasing the production of new nerve cells. Furthermore, physical activity increases blood flow to the brain, allowing for the absorption of more nutrients while simultaneously reducing inflammation and eliminating toxins.
Even those who start exercising later in life can still reap significant cognitive benefits. Studies have demonstrated that even seniors who engage in moderate aerobic exercise, such as walking or dancing, for only 35 minutes a day, three times a week, can experience significant cognitive improvement within six months.
In short, the more you move, the better equipped your brain will be to fend off age- and disease-related declines. Putting in even a modest effort to include daily exercise in your routine will pay off immensely not just in your brain health, but your overall well-being.
Helpful Resources for Brain Health and Exercise
If you’re interested in learning more about the remarkable connection between brain health and exercise, consult The Wahls Protocol by Dr. Terry Wahls. This powerful resource shares valuable information about how to optimize your mental and physical health through exercise and holistic strategies. Dr. Wahls welcomes discussions on her Facebook page, The Wahls Foundation, where she interacts with readers and gives helpful insights into her own journey to wellness.
Likewise, additional guidance and support can be found on her website. Here, you’ll find community resources that can help guide your transformation toward a healthier, happier lifestyle – by making exercise a priority and thus, preserving the health and size of your brain.
In conclusion, it’s clear that exercise and physical activity are essential for maintaining a healthy, robust brain. Incorporate daily movement into your routine and explore available resources to build a personalized program that serves your unique needs, and soon you’ll experience the powerful benefits of increased brain health.
