Dance, yoga, weights: The exercises to keep your mind fit

There’s no question that when you exercise, you feel good. Here are some exercises to keep you feeling great on the inside.

Regular exercise does wonders for your mental wellbeing; from boosting your mood and your self-esteem, to improving your memory. Research is also proving that physical activity helps people who suffer from depression and anxiety. If you’re in need of a pick-me-up, or you’re looking to better your mental health, here are some exercises to try. 

Yoga

It’s commonly known that yoga reaps just as many mental benefits as it does physical. According to research from the Boston University School of Medicine, yoga has been found to elevate brain gamma-aminobutyric (GABA) levels; a natural brain chemical that helps to calm your nervous system.

A GABA deficiency contributes to a range of mental disorders such as insomnia, depression and anxiety. According to the research, GABA levels increased by 27 per cent after a one hour session. So pull up a mat and start your Sun Salutations. 

Read more: CLICK HERE

Dancing

Even if you think you have two left feet, dancing is actually is a natural part of human behaviour. It’s a form of expression and celebration – not to mention a great social opportunity and mood booster. One of the best benefits of toe-tapping is that it improves cognitive brain function. Focusing on moves and routines also helps with memory and coordination.   

Jumping Jacks

We’re all guilty of getting stuck in the 3pm slump. A combination of our circadian rhythms, diet and staring at a screen for too long all contribute to the low-energy feeling we have when the afternoon hits. Getting up and doing jumping jacks helps to clear your mind and sharpen your focus by taking your eyes away from the screen. The deep breathing that comes with jumping acts as a brain reboot, helping you to refresh. It also helps to release endorphins which help with pain.  

Circuit Workouts

In workouts where you constantly have to redirect your attention, there’s no time to be bored. That’s why circuit training is so good for relieving stress and increasing brainpower. A circuit workout is also a holistic form of training, enabling your body to experience an exercise overhaul in one session. Done regularly, it can also help with enhancing self-esteem and giving you a sense of achievement. 

Cycling

Getting on a bike and going for a spin has been proven to make you smarter. According to a study from the University of Illinois, cycling has been found to increase the hippocampus; a section of the brain known to be the focal location that deals with emotional and memory function.

Participants in the study were reported to have a heightened attention span and a greater ability to focus. Cycling in the fresh air also helps to increase problem solving skills and also helps you to get a better night’s sleep.

Read more: CLICK HERE