Mindful Motion: How Movement Boosts Brain Longevity

Picture this: you’re enjoying a sunny day at the park, your laughter mingling with the cheerful chirping of birds as you take a leisurely walk with your friends. You’re not just enjoying the fresh air; you’re also treating your brain to something special. Let’s explore the captivating connection between movement and brain longevity.

The simple act of keeping your body in motion can be your secret weapon for maintaining a sharp mind.

Perhaps it should come as no surprise that brain vitality and physical movement are so connected. It’s deeply ingrained in our DNA. For the greater part of human history on this planet, “exercise” wasn’t something we actively sought out; it was an inherent part of our existence. We were compelled to move, to walk, run, swim, row, lift, carry, climb, and stretch—it was a matter of survival. It’s quite challenging to fathom a time in our distant past when a hardworking couple, after a day of toiling in the fields, contemplated going for a leisurely jog around the barn.

However, civilization, particularly in the post-industrial era, has largely eliminated the necessity for physical exertion. Nowadays, physical activity has transformed into a predominantly voluntary endeavor, which, regrettably, has negative consequences. Your bodies require challenges to sustain their well-being and functionality. Engaging in regular movement is what ensures that all the systems within our bodies continue to operate smoothly and efficiently.

This includes your brain.

The Brain-Body Connection

It’s like a lifelong friendship between the brain and the body, two inseparable companions who revel in each other’s company. Their connection is so profound that it influences both your physical and mental well-being more than you might realize. Physical activity, in particular, shares an intriguing bond with your brain, and it’s all about the magic of chemistry. Think of those enchanting neurochemicals like endorphins, dopamine, and the enchanting BDNF (Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor) (1). These are the brain’s little helpers that come alive during physical movement, and they’re the ones who make your brain sway to its very own happy dance.

Movement and Cognitive Function

Now, let’s chat about smarts, shall we? Regular physical activity isn’t just about keeping you in shape; it’s also about giving your cognitive abilities a turbocharged boost. Yes, science backs this up! Movement is your brain’s unsung superhero, the guardian that stands against the aging-related cognitive decline and sneaky memory lapses that like to sneak up on us (3). It’s like a full-fledged workout session for your brain cells, helping them stay sharp, agile, and ready for action.

Reducing Cognitive Decline

We all know that, as the years go by, our brains can sometimes slow down a tad. But physical movement is your trusty secret weapon in this battle against the passage of time. Research and studies have unveiled the incredible power of staying active. It’s not just about preventing the dreaded cognitive decline; it’s also about putting up a formidable defense against scary diagnoses like Alzheimer’s disease (2). Let’s keep those neurons firing and your brain performing at its peak!

Movement isn’t merely about looking good in your favorite outfit; it’s about feeling great, staying agile, and, maybe surprisingly, preserving your brain’s vitality. Whether it’s a walk in the woods, a yoga class, a heart-pounding sprint, or anything in between, remember that your brain will thank you for it. 

Get moving, and unlock the secrets to a healthier, happier, and sharper mind – a mind that’s ready to dance through the years with you.

Interested in reading more about movement? Check out this article on Why Movement Matters.

Sources:

1. Colberg, Sheri R. et al. “Exercise and Type 2 Diabetes.” Diabetes Care. (2010): 147-67.

2. Erickson, Kirk et al. “Exercise training increases size of hippocampus and improves memory.” PNAS. (2011): 3017-22.

3. Mavros, Yorgi et al. “Mediation of Cognitive Function Improvements by Strength Gains After Resistance Training in Older Adults with Mild Cognitive Impairment: Outcomes of the Study of Mental and Resistance Training.” Journal of the American Geriatrics Society. (2016): 550-9.