We all know the FACT that regular physical movement is fantastic for physical health. Conditions like hypertension and diabetes can improve with consistent exercise, and cardiovascular activities offer a wide range of benefits.
But did you know that routine physical movement is also excellent for emotional and psychological well-being?
Yes, moving your body can positively impact your mental health, and I’m a staunch advocate for movement as a collaborative intervention. When the body is in motion, body chemistry gets activated, increasing and decreasing specific chemicals that promote wellness while simultaneously reducing emotional, psychological and physical symptoms and less desired experiences.
The Science
Let’s take a quick trip back to science class. Endorphins, dopamine, serotonin – sound familiar? They’re hormones and neurotransmitters. How about cortisol? It’s a hormone too. These four body chemicals offer incredible benefits, and the best part? They’re free!
Dopamine is the body’s natural “feel good” neurotransmitter. It evokes feelings of pleasure and satisfaction and even motivation. Fancy that!
Serotonin is another neurotransmitter directly associated with mood. People who experience depression often have low levels of serotonin. Intentional physical movement, such as walking, activates the release of serotonin, increasing its levels. See where we’re going with this?
Endorphins are hormones produced in the brain and released in response to stress, pain, and pleasure. The brain releases endorphins when the body feels stress or pain to make you feel better. It also releases them during pleasurable activities like cardiovascular exercise, enjoying a meal, getting a massage, and even sex, enhancing the experience.
Finally, there’s cortisol, often associated with weight. Cortisol levels can influence weight gain and retention. Here’s a secret: stress increases cortisol levels, and a simple movement like walking can reduce cortisol levels. When cortisol is high, it’s easy to gain weight and tough to release it. When cortisol is low, the body can release weight more easily.
Pause for a moment to ponder what you just read. Imagine all four body chemicals responding to physical movement simultaneously. That’s Wellness!
A Day in Motion
It’s Saturday morning. You’re feeling intentional and decide to walk for about 35 minutes (a bit over the minimum), and you’re doing it outside! As you get into walking, Dopamine increases, making you feel good and motivated. Serotonin starts rising – feeling even better! You're pushing yourself, feeling a little tight - but still pushing. Look at that! Endorphins kicking in, reducing soreness in your legs. You feel a wave of warmth, like a second wind. Look at that – it’s already been 45 minutes! Walking Done & Dusted!
Are you proud of yourself? You should be! Feeling good, accomplished, and relaxed. You also got an added bonus – the sun gifted you free Vitamin D, another mood elevator!
That’s the Power of Body Chemistry!
Emotional and Psychological Benefits
Routine physical movement can lead to cognitive clarity, improved sleep/wake cycle, better focus, improved quality and quantity of sleep, increased resilience, and more energy. Here’s more: decreased feelings of sadness and isolation, increased feelings of connection, purpose, and worth, reduced fear and anxiety, and a greater sense of emotional stability.
Move Your Body
Walking has been mentioned several times in this blog, but walking is definitely not the only movement that matters! Consider the various ways and opportunities you can move your body. Here are a few examples: biking, swimming, jump rope, Zumba, aerobics, kickboxing, elliptical, boot camp, skating, CrossFit – there are so many ways to move your body!
Forward Motion
Now that you know, what’s next? Make time, create space, and we’ll connect again.
It’s time to get N’Motion!
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