Physical activity has numerous health benefits, from reducing the risk of chronic diseases to improving overall wellbeing.

But did you know that physical activity is also important for mental health and memory? Engaging in regular physical activity can help improve cognitive function, reduce stress and anxiety, and even prevent certain psychiatric disorders. In this article, we’ll explore the latest research on the links between physical activity, mental health, and memory.

How Physical Activity Affects Mental Health

Studies have shown that physical activity can have a positive impact on mood and mental health. The reason for this is that exercise causes the brain to release endorphins, chemicals that are known to promote feelings of happiness and wellbeing.

Endorphins also help reduce feelings of anxiety and stress, helping individuals to feel more relaxed and calm.

Physical activity also helps to reduce the likelihood of developing certain psychiatric disorders such as depression and anxiety.

Exercise has been shown to increase levels of a protein called brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) which is important for the growth and development of new neurons in the brain. This can help to improve cognitive function and mental health, while also reducing the risk of developing various mental health problems.

Physical Activity and Memory

In addition to the benefits for mental health, engaging in regular physical activity can also improve memory function.

Research has found that exercise can increase the size of the hippocampus, an area of the brain that is responsible for memory and learning. This is because exercise causes the brain to produce new cells and connections, which can help to improve memory and cognitive function.

Regular physical activity can also help to prevent cognitive decline and reduce the risk of developing conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease later in life.

Studies have found that individuals who engage in regular exercise have a reduced risk of developing cognitive decline, and those who do experience cognitive decline tend to do so at a slower rate than those who are less physically active.

How Much Physical Activity is Needed?

So, how much physical activity is needed to see these benefits for mental health and memory? According to the World Health Organization (WHO), adults should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity physical activity per week. This can include a range of activities such as walking, swimming, cycling, and weightlifting.

It’s important to note that physical activity doesn’t have to be intense to be beneficial for mental health and memory.

Even light-intensity activities such as gardening or household chores can have a positive impact on these aspects of health.

Getting Started with Physical Activity

If you’re looking to add more physical activity to your routine, it’s important to start slowly and work your way up. This can help prevent injuries and ensure that you are able to maintain the habit over time.

Consider starting with short walks around your neighborhood or light strength training exercises at home.

You may also want to consider working with a professional such as a personal trainer or physical therapist to develop a safe and effective exercise program tailored to your needs and goals.

Conclusion

Engaging in regular physical activity has numerous health benefits, including improvements to mental health and memory.

Exercise can help to reduce feelings of anxiety and stress, while also promoting the growth and development of new neurons in the brain. It can also improve memory function, reduce the risk of cognitive decline, and even prevent certain psychiatric disorders. So, if you’re looking to improve your overall health and wellbeing, consider adding physical activity to your routine.