As an Osteopath and mindset coach I advocate keeping the body in as optimum a condition as you can.
This leads to a better frame of mind, reduced mental angst and improved movement of the joints. Whatever your level of fitness you can improve it. You can boost your brain power by regularly going for walks or getting out into the garden and doing some gentle gardening. By getting the body moving you improve the circulation of blood and oxygen around the body including to the brain.
Whilst we have had social distancing in 2020 (I prefer the term physical distancing) it is not too late to change some of the impacts of the pandemic and gain improved mental and physical wellbeing in 2021. If you have an active body, research has suggested that you can boost your self-esteem, enhance cognitive functioning and improve your sleep.
Just going for a walk 15minutes in one direction and 15 minutes back you would have done 30 minutes of exercise – and how easy would it be to do half an hour in each direction? The benefits are tremendous for your well-being and the effects are quickly felt.
Here are 5 reasons to keep active and exercise
- Your brain increases in size and can form new neural connections due to the increased blood flow
- You will get a mood boost due to the naturally release happy hormones
- GABA (neuro transmitters) are released with mindful exercise such as Yoga/Pilates which help to relieve stress
- Improved sleep can lead to a boost in mental health and enhanced immune system
- There is reduced age-related cognitive decline with regular exercise