Regular workouts get our body in shape. No doubt. But have you ever thought of a workout for the mind? Turns out that exercise trains the mind, but not all exercise is equally effective. Using the latest research, online magazine Inverse recently outlined optimal exercises to boost brain health:

The simple act of walking(!) even as little as three hours a week has been proven to improve brain health. Walking in nature, as opposed to along a busy road is most beneficial (New York Times). So take that quick 30 to yourself whenever you can and head down to the local park to quieten your mind. The NY Times suggests to go by yourself with no music for best results 🙂 Many studies also show that walking can prevent brain shrinkage, and increase neuron growth which improves memory. It’s a win-win!
Turns out that light stretching (ie. yoga, stretching routines) and moderate aerobics (ie. recreational cycling, tennis doubles) can help with depression. A Rutgers University study showed that “aerobic exercise clearly benefits young adults with major depression”. Three times a week for eight weeks, some participants did moderate-intensity aerobic exercise and others did light-intensity stretching. Depression symptoms were reduced by 55 percent in the aerobic exercise group versus 31 percent in the light-intensity stretching group”. Well worth remembering for yourself or loved ones to help revive during a rough time.

The Inverse infographic entitled “5 Best Exercises to Improve Brain Health”, also points to more 2020 research outcomes:

Exercise makes you smart! Swedish scientists have shown that high intensity exercise (fast cycling, running, and any active sport such as footy or soccer) improves young people’s memory, concentration and ability to focus for the following two hours (County Hospital Ryhov and Jönköping University).
Running, swimming, and any sport that raises your heart rate, helps with cognitive decline (German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases)
Strength training protects against brain degradation (University of Sydney)

So keep this in ‘mind’ 😉 when scheduling your routine! Or next time you head out for some spontaneous exercise.

Warmly,
The Stable Team.