Mental Sharpness May Be Spurred by Exercise
By Tom Herrin
One of the last things many people think about when they become concerned about improving their mental ability is exercising. They may even consider it a distraction. They may feel that working out is a way of avoiding study. The fact is that exercise may play an important role in mental function and preserving the brain. What may have been once been thought of as looking for ways to skirt around studying may actually be a great way to boost mental performance. With good planning, it may be possible to enjoy exercising while improving mental abilities.
Exercise May Rewire the Brain
It is believed that the brain may be retrained by certain kinds of exercise. Even though people don't often think about it in that way, learning certain skills that require physical accomplishment also require the brain to do some connecting. This basically means that the neurons have to be trained again to do different things. Physical movement or activity may be used to make this happen. It is believed that those who exercise are better able to deal with stress as well. This would be a natural in promoting new learning.
Exercise Be Good for Memory
Apparently memory is one of those things that can be helped by exercise. If nothing else, it is thought that exercise can increase blood flow to body parts, including the brain. This means a better supply of oxygen that is so critical for successful function. There are a variety of other things that benefit from regular exercise that can help improve the activity of the brain. If learning and memory are both made better with exercise, why would anyone try to avoid doing more of it?
Plan for Better Overall Health
If we want to maintain our brain function, and hopefully improve it, we have to be aware of what can help. The next thing we must do is follow through. That is the area in which many of us fall short. I am always looking for things to do to avoid dementia and other problems associated with the decline of mental function. As a result, I am all about exercise if it can help. It is something I enjoy anyway. Whatever the case, we all can do better. If we find ways that work, let us do them with enthusiasm and determination.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Parker, Colo.