What's up with the brain and exercise?

Those of you who know me know that I enjoy talking about the brain and how it plays an enormous role in our lives. Our feelings, thought patterns, habits and much more are all formed and processed in our brain. I love to learn about the cutting edge of science and behavior, which is why I would like to praise a fascinating new book about how exercise alters our brain. The book is called Spark: The Revolutionary New Science of Exercise and the Brain, and was written by renowned author and psychiatrist John Ratey, MD.

Dr. Ratey discusses several of the benefits of exercise on our brain that are supported with robust scientific evidence. The book opens with a discussion of how exercise improves things like our ability to learn and absorb information, which ultimately improves test scores. This conclusion provides support for keeping exercise in our schools' programs. I have patients right here in Seeley Lake who have expressed concern about the lack of exercise opportunities in our schools.

Dr. Ratey also writes about the impact of exercise on stress. Exercise puts "brakes" on the "noise" of our brain. Going for a run, Raney explains, can help us "outrun our fears." This is to say that running has many benefits such as distraction, reducing muscle tension and building brain resources – all of which reduce stress. You might be thinking, "Running isn't for me." That's OK! Make exercise your own by choosing a type of exercise or activity regimen that appeals to you!

The next topic covered is depression. Interestingly, the United Kingdom uses exercise as the first line of defense against depression. If you are feeling down, beginning an exercise routine can help you learn about your own resilience and self-sufficiency.

Spark addressed many other topics including ADHD, addiction, hormonal changes, and aging. I made sure that there are numerous copies at our local library. Not a big reader? No problem! You can simply turn to the chapter on the topic that interests you most.

Maybe you're like me. I don't care for anything that resembles "exercise," rather, I pursue fun. I love the feeling of peace and freedom on the bicycle, the serenity of Mother Nature while skiing cross country, or skating and spinning circles on ice. I just bought a kick sled to add to winter fun! Simple experiences like dog walking or delighting in your pet's joy as you give them attention bring me joy. Adding music to your walks can transform that activity from "exercise" to something much more fun and enjoyable!

In closing, if you want to begin exercising more to experience many of the benefits discussed by Dr. Ratey, don't jump all in right away. Start easy so that you can be in it for the long haul. It is stated that it takes approximately 66 days to incorporate a new routine or habit. So go easy on yourself while you incorporate a new exercise (or better yet, let's call it an activity). You can do it alone or with others – it's all good.

Exercise is not an either-or option. It is important to lean on your Dr. and/or your Behavioral Health Therapist when adopting new healthy habits like exercise. I often say that we should use all of the support resources available to us when dealing with the challenges of life.