Move Your Body, Boost Your Mood: The Science Behind How Exercise Helps You Cope with Stress
Feeling stressed or down? It’s time to get moving! Not only can exercise improve our mood and reduce stress, but it can also enhance our clarity of thought. Have you ever noticed how a good workout or a spontaneous dance session in the kitchen can make you feel better and more energised? Have you ever wondered about the science behind this?
What’s the research saying about exercise and stress?
Dr. Wendy Suzuki, a neuroscientist and professor of neural science and psychology at New York University, has been studying the impact of exercise on brain function and cognitive performance for over two decades.
Her work has shown regular physical activity has a positive impact on various aspects of mental health, including mood, stress, and memory. Her passion for this area has been fuelled by her personal journey with exercise and its positive effects on her life.
Dr. Wendy Suzuki’s research has shown that exercising increases the levels of neurotransmitters in our brain that regulate our mood, such as dopamine and serotonin. So, if you’re feeling down or stressed out, going for a jog or taking a yoga class might just give you the natural mood boost you need!
When we exercise, our body releases a variety of chemicals and hormones that can have numerous positive effects on our physical and mental health. The one we hear most about is probably cortisol.
Cortisol is a hormone that is released by our body in response to stress. During exercise, cortisol levels initially increase to help the body mobilize energy and respond to physical stress. However, as we continue to exercise, cortisol levels begin to decrease, and this decrease can have several positive effects on our body, such as decreased feelings of anxiety and depression. Additionally, regular exercise can improve sleep quality, which in turn can lead to lower cortisol levels.
Other important chemicals released when we exercise are:
Endorphine
These are often referred to as the “feel-good” chemicals because they can produce feelings of euphoria and happiness. Endorphins can also help to reduce pain and stress.
Dopamine
Associated with feelings of pleasure and reward.
Serotonin
This hormone is involved in regulating mood, appetite, and sleep.
Norepinephrine
This hormone is involved in the body’s stress response and can help to increase alertness, focus, and energy levels.
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)
This protein is involved in the growth and maintenance of brain cells. Exercise has been shown to increase BDNF levels, which can help to improve cognitive function and protect against age-related cognitive decline.
So now its known that movement can stimulate the growth of new neurons in the brain, particularly in the hippocampus, the area responsible for memory and learning. She describes exercise like a bubble bath for the brain! Regular exercise can improve attention, concentration, and problem-solving skills. That’s something we all want and need.
The picuture is looking pretty clear as to how exercise can support our mental and physical wellbeing.
Its safe to say movement is a powerful tool for promoting mental health and well-being. Regular physical activity can help us cope with stress, improve our mood, and enhance cognitive function. Whether it’s a walk in the park, a yoga class, or a dance party, find a movement that you enjoy and make it a regular part of your routine. Your body and brain will thank you!
Listen to Dr Wendy Suzuki on Feel Better, Live More Podcast with Dr Rangan Chatterjee for a fascinating talk about exercise and the brain.
