Exercising is the key to good health. FILE PHOTO | NMG
What you need to know:
Many devastating effects of mental disorders can be avoided through physical exercise.
Every time we exercise, we activate our brain centres to secrete chemicals such as endorphins, serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine which facilitate physical and psychological well-being of an individual.
Moreover, there is an adequate release of tension promoting a sense of relaxation, which is also an ideal way to combat anxiety.
Mental disorders are of major public health significance. It has been claimed that vigorous physical activity has positive effects on mental health. Physical activity and exercise alleviate symptoms associated with mild to moderate depression.
Many devastating effects of mental disorders can be avoided through physical exercise. It is interesting that health problems that cut short our lives in the world including cardiovascular diseases can also be prevented and fought through regular physical exercises. Every time we exercise, we activate our brain centres to secrete chemicals such as endorphins, serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine which facilitate physical and psychological well-being of an individual.
These are mood enhancing chemicals which keep you psyched and energised.
Moreover, there is an adequate release of tension promoting a sense of relaxation, which is also an ideal way to combat anxiety. Through exercise, we channel the energy that the body has been accumulating over time. Physical exercises lead to increased heart rate and breathing intensity that makes the brain send signals to them to help you breathe faster and deeper, delivering extra oxygen to your muscles. In addition, due to the increased concentrations of oxygen, glucose, endorphins and serotonin during exercise, there is an increase in circulation in the blood vessels, which has a positive effect on cognitive functions.
Vigorous activities
At such a point, there is a great inhibition on the production of stress hormones, reducing and avoiding symptoms of depression. The effects of stress have a severe impact on health. It is, therefore, important to have vigorous activities or relaxation for some time every day.
Any form of sport, for instance, running, swimming, playing golf and gym exercises, among others trigger the body to produce the above chemicals in our bodies.
We cannot fail to recognise the effect of exercise on immunity. There is an elevation on your level of immunoglobulins — the proteins that bolster your immune system and ward off infection.
Workouts help to reduce the risk of acquiring type 2 diabetes. The more you work out, the greater your sensitivity to insulin. That in turn, lowers your blood sugar levels, reducing your risk of type 2 diabetes.
There is a need to engage in different modes of physical exercises like walking, gymnastics, running or jogging and soccer, swimming, cycling, aerobics or any other sport that is vigorous in nature.
Regardless of the age of the person, sex, physical condition or abilities it’s important to stay away from the bed, sofa during the day and to remain in constant activity.
The writer is Physical Therapist, Chiropractic & Physiotherapy Health Centre.
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