Basic Pursuits

Evidence continues to mount that exercise has enormous benefits on the brain. A while back we posted on research that showed that brain workouts like crossword puzzles, while effective, aren't nearly as effective as regular exercise for brain health. You're much better off taking a walk than sitting around doing a crossword puzzle.

Now, Britain's The Independent has just published an article that gives a general survey of the latest thinking on exercise and mental health.

Here are the highlights.

Happiness
Exercise can change the way our brains work ato make us happier.

Stress
Exercise allows the body to purge the potentially toxic by-products of stress.

Intelligence
"Physical activity boosts the flow of blood to the part of the brain that is responsible for memory and learning, promoting the production of new brain cells."

Aggression
Exercise increases activity in the frontal cortex, boosting rational thought and reducing the likelihood of lashing out.

Memory
Exercise increases blood flow to the part of the brain responsible for memory and improves it's function.

Addiction
Exercise can stimulate the production of the mood-enhancing hormone, dopamine, which can reduce somkers' dependence on nicotine.

It's no wonder that when successful exercisers cite their reasons for exercising, an overwhelming majority say, "it makes me feel better."

Train your brain: Can jogging make you smarter?