Unrot Your Brain: Movement is Medicine

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Every movement you take is a chance to rewire your brain.

We often think of exercise as something for our bodies. It strengthens muscles, improves endurance and increases energy levels. But what does it do for the brain? Movement is not just for physical benefit. Movement also chemically enhances the brain. Every time you move, your brain lights up in ways that can change its structure. 

Neuroplasticity is the brain’s ability to adapt, form new connections, and reorganize throughout life. When you learn something new or move your body in a new way, your brain rewires. Exercise is like a supercharger for this process. 

What Exercise Does for The Brain

With exercise, blood flow to the brain increases and brings oxygen and nutrients that help neurons grow stronger. The hippocampus, the part of the brain involved in learning and memory, quite literally expands in size. Studies show that consistent aerobic exercise such as walking, running, or cycling increases proteins that act like fertilizer for your brain cells. Put simply, moving the body helps the mind grow. 

Even a short burst of activity can improve mood, attention, and problem-solving skills. This is why you might feel clearer or more creative after a walk. Physical movement is a natural antidote to brain rot. It combats the sluggishness and numbness we fall prey to from sitting, scrolling, and overstimulating our minds. 

How to Move to train the Mind

You do not have to become a gym rat. All that is necessary is to start moving with intention. 

1. Take a brain break. Every hour, stand up, stretch, or take a quick walk. Small movements like these help to reset focus to avoid burnout. 

2. Try something new. Learning a new sport or activity can challenge coordination and strengthen neural connections. 

3. Move outdoors. Nature walks may offer extra benefits. Movement and sensory stimulation both boost mental clarity, which can improve mental health.

4. Exercise with friends. Group workouts or walks combine physical activity with social connection, which also aids in mental health and brain resilience. Check out classes held at the Baun Fitness Center if you are looking for collaborative exercise. 

The Importance of Movement

Making movement a habit is more than just staying fit; you are actively choosing to keep your brain flexible, alive, and giving it the capacity to adapt to struggle. A sedentary mind becomes rigid, but an active one carries the capacity for change. Neuroplasticity helps you learn, recover from setbacks, and grow mentally as a person. 

So the next time that you catch yourself mindlessly scrolling, put the phone down and move your body. The cure for brain rot might be as easy as taking those first few steps. 

References

Effects of physical exercise on Neuroplasticity and brain function: A systematic review in human and animal studies. (n.d.). PMC Home. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7752270/

Physical exercise enhances Neuroplasticity and delays Alzheimer’s disease. (n.d.). PMC Home. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6296269/