Every Time You Move, You’re Doing Something Good for Your Brain

Here’s something pretty wild that most people don’t think about.

When you hit the mat in the morning, take a walk, do some Qigong, or simply move your body intentionally, you’re not just doing something for your muscles.

You’re doing something for your brain too.

One of the things researchers have been studying is BDNF.

Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor.

Fancy name. I prefer brain fertilizer.

BDNF helps support the health of brain cells and the connections between them. It plays an important role in learning, memory, and the brain’s ability to adapt and change.

And physical activity can increase it.

I find that fascinating.

Why I Care About This

I feel mentally sharper today than I did years ago.

I can’t prove exactly why. There are probably a lot of things involved.

But I believe moving every day is part of it.

And I can certainly tell you what I notice in real time.

After I move, my mind usually feels clearer.

I’m more focused.

Ideas come easier.

Sometimes something I’ve been wrestling with suddenly doesn’t seem quite so complicated.

Maybe BDNF is part of that. Increased blood flow and changes in brain chemistry are probably part of it too.

Whatever combination is happening under the hood, I know how I feel.

And I like it.

Your Brain Likes Movement Too

The research connecting physical activity with brain health has become pretty compelling.

Regular physical activity is associated with better cognitive function and a lower risk of cognitive decline as we age.

That’s a pretty good return on something that was already helping your muscles, joints, balance, heart, mood, and everything else.

And once again, you don’t have to turn it into a heroic workout.

Walk.

Stretch.

Do Qigong.

Dance around the kitchen.

Take a class.

Go outside and do something.

Your brain doesn’t need a gym membership.

It needs you to use your body.

Try This Yourself

The next time your brain feels foggy or you’ve been staring at the same problem for too long, don’t automatically reach for another cup of coffee.

Get up.

Move for five or ten minutes.

Then come back and notice what happened.

Don’t take my word for it.

Your own body is a pretty good laboratory.