Physical Activity and the Medicine Wheel: the Mind

Mental Health Benefits of Daily Physical Activity

• Physical activity
  • Increases serotonin (reduces depression) in the brain
  • Helps reduce depression, anxiety and panic disorders
  • May also decrease the time required for anti-depressants to be effective
  • Increases endorphins from long-duration aerobic exercise
    • Endorphins are the brain's "feel-good" neurotransmitters. Sometimes called, "runner's high"
  • Enhances brain activity (reaction time, memory, reasoning)
  • Increases the speed and efficiency of mental processes such as organizing (planning, scheduling, interpreting visual images)
  • Improves verbal and memory skills
  • Improves academic achievement, particularly for math and science
  • Promotes better mental functioning across the age span
    • Twice a week is related to a reduced risk of dementia and Alzheimer's disease
  • Improves sleep
  • May reduce pain (naloxone)
  • Acts as a form of meditation or relaxation for many
  • Reduces mental fatigue