Put Some Muscle Into Your Alertness
By Sandy Schroeder
Health experts tell us exercise and mental alertness are closely linked. So why not make the most of that to derive more physical power and mental energy from exercising? You may be active right now, but why not make the benefits even better?
Here's What Happens
WebMD says staying active every day stretches the mind in all sorts of ways. When exercise drives the heart rate up, more oxygen is pumped to the brain. This triggers the release of hormones that promote the growth of brain cells. Exercise also encourages brain plasticity creating new connections between cells in many key areas of the brain.
What Comes Next
When we increase our activity level, a lot of good things come into play, and you will probably notice the difference.
- Your memory may be better
- You may feel less anxious or depressed
- Your brain may become more agile
- You may be avoiding dementia
- You may connect the dots faster
- Blood flow in the brain may be improved
- You may sleep better
Health experts say the amount of exercise makes a difference too. You may start out gradually and notice more mental improvements as you expand your activities.
If this tempts you to start moving more right away, here are some good options.
- Walk 30 minutes every day
- Start running a couple times a week
- Bike whenever you can
- Swim as much as possible
- Try a tai chi class
- Start doing yoga
- Take a dance class
- Try basketball, volleyball or soccer
- Try golf or tennis
- Do weekend wilderness walks or hikes
- Camp out with your family on the weekends
- Start stretching every morning
- Lift small weights a couple times a week
- Do exercise sprints with jumping jacks and lunges
As you become more active, pick the best times to exercise and build the exercises into your daily schedule. You might involve your family or add an exercise buddy too. The more comfortable you make the process the more likely it will become an ongoing habit.
When you are ready to push the alertness button, visit The Joint Chiropractic clinic near you and find out more about the personal healthcare plans that eliminate the hassle of insurance. Walk-ins are welcome.
To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Flower Mound, Tex.