Most of us know exercise is good for strengthening muscles and staying in shape, but did you know movement actually changes the CHEMISTRY of your BRAIN?

Physical activity has the power to activate parts of your brain that boost your mood, mental clarity, energy, and creativity. And it doesn’t have to mean doing intense cardio or power lifting for an hour; a 20 minute brisk-paced walk is all it takes!

Today we’re going to take a closer look at the numerous benefits CONSISTENT exercise has on our quality of life, and how chiropractic care helps us move and recover better so we can age WELL, PREVENT disease, and show up as the BEST versions of ourselves for our family, jobs, and community.

Exercise: Amazing potential for your mind, body, and soul

Daily movement is one of the most POWERFUL TOOLS in your stay-well arsenal. It's your natural anti-depressant, instant stress-reliever, and caffeine-free energy booster. Look at how a 20 minute walk lights up your brain!

The brain on the right shows increased activity after walking for 20 minutes compared to a sedentary person. Increased brain activity means those feel-good endorphins, dopamine and GABA (neurotransmitters which have a calming effect -- think peaceful, not sleepy) are being released into your body, helping you feel better.

Mental Health Benefits:

• Sharpens focus and concentration
• Reduces brain fog
• Improves memory
• Inspires creativity

Emotional Health Benefits:

• Relives anxiety
• Reduces depression
• Boosts your energy and mood
• Increases motivation and confidence
• Yoga, Pilates, and other breath-work exercises help you feel calmer and grounded so you’re not stuck in “fight-or flight” mode.

Physical Health Benefits:

• Alleviates stress: Higher intensity movement gets stress OUT of your body while lower-intensity movement (yoga or walking outside) guides your nervous system to a calmer, more balanced state.
• Improves quality of sleep (especially when done in the morning)
• Increases energy reserves in your body
• Potential to improve blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and circulation
• Improves flexibility and mobility
• Improves insulin sensitivity
• Reduces risk for cancer and chronic disease
• Helps you reach or maintain a healthy body weight
• Strengthens muscles and bones (resistance-based workouts)

If you haven’t implemented a weekly fitness routine yet, TODAY is the best time to get started! There will always be other responsibilities vying for your attention, but you CAN make time for a 20 min. brisk-paced walk or HIIT workout – you just have to be intentional with your schedule.