Exercise Benefits Mind: Beyond Mood

In summary, exercise has numerous benefits for the mind, in addition to the well-known benefits for the body. It can provide an escape from cyclical thinking and unnecessary thoughts, similar to meditation or relaxation therapy. It also increases blood flow to the brain, providing necessary oxygen and iron for cell maintenance and overall well-being. Exercise also triggers the release of endorphins and epinephrine, which can reduce pain and improve performance. On the other hand, lack of exercise and the buildup of stress can lead to the release of hormones associated with stress, fear, anger, and immobility. Therefore, incorporating exercise into one's routine can have a positive impact on both the mind and body.
  • #1
Lonewolf
336
1
Are there any benefits for the mind from exercise, as well as body, apart from on mood?
 
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  • #2
Originally posted by Lonewolf
Are there any benefits for the mind from exercise, as well as body, apart from on mood?

Excercise will offer an escape from cyclical thinking and unnecessary thoughts... its much like meditation or relaxation therapy. When you must focus on the task at hand (ie: playing hockey)... all other trivial, stressor thoughts tend to receed. (although hockey is a bad example when you consider the number of conflicts)

Excercise will also offer blood to the brain which it needs a fair amount of at any time of day or night. A person's blood, during excercise, is especially enriched with oxygen... expecially if the excercise takes place out of doors... out of the way of the air conditioner and the flourescent lighting. The oxygen and iron adhereing to the blood are used in cell maintanence, health and produce an overall feeling of well-being for the respective cells and organs of an organism.

Excercise produces endorphins that dull pain from repetitive motion. It excites epinephren (adrenaline) which, in turn, enhances performance. These excretions are autonomic and occur when the body begins any sudden and reoccuring movements.

It is thought that a lack of excercise (and the build-up of stressor thoughts that do not lead to action) releases nor-epinephren (amoung many other hormones) which is a hormone associated with stress, fear, anger and immobility. So, at the end of the day, when you see a crowd of office workers leaving their honeycombed palace of employment... you might want to cross to the other side of the street.
 
  • #3
Originally posted by Lonewolf
Are there any benefits for the mind from exercise, as well as body, apart from on mood?


Studies show that that physical activity promotes enhanced focusing abilities.
But, I don't quite understand your question. Are you asking whether the excercising of the body helps the mind or vice versa?
 
  • #4
I was asking the ways in which exercising the body benefits the mind.
 
  • #5
Originally posted by Lonewolf
I was asking the ways in which exercising the body benefits the mind.

Why?
 
  • #6
Originally posted by quantumcarl
Why?

Why Not?
 
  • #7
Originally posted by quantumcarl
Why?

Because I wanted to know..
 
  • #8
Originally posted by Lonewolf
Because I wanted to know..

try a google search on "excercise" or "excercise and mind" or "benefits of excercise".
You will find some interesting facts to consider about your question.

Thank you.
 
  • #9
I have been in intense, severe pain for most of the past nine months. One way of relieving the pain is to exercise. My mind feels freer, more open, less aggravated and irritable as a result of the exercise, which makes the pain go away, if only for a while. A specialist could no doubt explain exactly what is going on, but I can assure you, exercise is of great benefit to the mind.
 

1. What are the physical benefits of exercise on the mind?

Regular exercise has been shown to improve overall physical health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. These physical benefits also have a positive impact on the mind as exercise can improve cognition, memory, and brain function.

2. Can exercise improve mental health?

Yes, exercise has been found to have numerous mental health benefits. It can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, improve mood, and increase self-esteem. Regular exercise has also been linked to a decreased risk of developing mental health disorders.

3. How does exercise benefit the brain?

Exercise increases blood flow and oxygen to the brain, promoting the growth of new brain cells and connections between them. This can improve cognitive function, memory, and focus. Exercise also releases endorphins, which are chemicals that can improve mood and reduce stress and anxiety.

4. Is there a specific type of exercise that is most beneficial for the mind?

While any form of physical activity is beneficial for the mind, research suggests that aerobic exercise, such as running or cycling, may have the most positive impact on brain health. However, any type of exercise that gets your heart rate up and promotes blood flow can have positive effects on the mind.

5. How much exercise is needed to see improvements in the mind?

The amount of exercise needed to see improvements in the mind can vary from person to person. However, most studies suggest that 30 minutes of moderate to vigorous exercise, five times a week, can have significant benefits for the mind. It is important to find an exercise routine that works for you and to be consistent with it to see the best results.

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