Exercise is also a key to mental health

We are designed to move.

Our bodies are mechanical miracles that enable us to walk, run, lift and play. As we use them, our bodies adapt and flourish. Our muscles grow stronger, our bones tougher, our hearts more powerful. Health improves: we become leaner and fitter, and less likely to develop deadly diseases such as diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure and cancer.

Exercise also benefits the brain and mind. Scientists used to think that the brain was largely unchangeable. However, now we know that the brain is amazingly responsive and can even increase in size when stimulated by exercise or meditation or when fed a healthy diet. When we walk or workout more blood and oxygen flow to the brain, and over time new blood vessels form so that the increased blood flow becomes permanent. With exercise, the brain actually increases in size as brain cells live longer, sprout new connections, and join each other to form new neural pathways.

What kinds of exercise work? Well, almost any kind of exercise is beneficial, whether it’s walking, gardening, playing a sport, or working out in the gym. However, it’s especially helpful to exercise vigorously and regularly for at least 30 minutes at a time.

If you do this you’ll notice both immediate and long-term benefits. First, you’ll notice a sense of wellbeing that begins a few minutes after you exercise. This is called “runners high.” Over the long term, you’ll not only feel happier, healthier, and more energetic, but you’ll also have the satisfaction of knowing you’re doing something for your body, your brain, your mind, and of course yourself.