Physical activity and cognitive health are two inseparable concepts. The interdependence is so great that any change in either one will result in immediate effect on the other.
Since ancient times it has been known that physical activity alleviates the symptoms of sadness, grief and more even depression. In a book titled “Fit and Well”, the authors present a close connection between fitness and well being of the mind and body. Not only is physical activity a great way to reduce stress and cure depression, it changes the lifestyle and allows for a better quality of life.
Overall, there are six dimensions that define a healthy lifestyle, they are: physical wellness, emotional, intellectual, interpersonal, spiritual and environmental (Fahey, Insel and Ruth 3). Physicians recommend physical activity to relieve the stress and depressed mood. On a strictly psychological level a person who exercises feels better about themselves morally.
They feel that they have accomplished something and the euphoric emotion overpowers the state of negativity. The bodily chemical functions and cognitive mechanisms are closely intertwined. It has been shown that physical activity greatly influences blood pressure, platelet function, heart rate, variability and the autonomic nervous system in general (Contrada 17).
Fitness helps a person to feel better by having an organization and structure of an activity. It does not necessarily have to be heavy lifting or other types of strength training. A game of volleyball, badminton or even swimming, will create changes in the brain that will release chemicals, which beneficially deal with the depressed state.
When a person begins any sort of physical activity, the body arranges itself and prepares for a different state. The neural controls give a signal to the mechanisms in the body that affect the blood flow, skeletal muscles, tissues and organs (Otto 5). The activity of the body makes the brain release endorphins into the blood stream and as such, the whole mechanism of the body is affected. This happens unconsciously.
As briefly mentioned previously, cognitively, the physical activity creates a structure in a person’s life. The individual is looking forward to the exercise. There is a change in plans, adjustment of the schedule, which forces a person to think about the future activity. The state after the exercise is another level of reward and relief. Also, wellness in the environment and social interaction are closely connected, as a person must be one with the world.
Recycling and keeping the living conditions healthy, leads to a more satisfying existence. Proper and respectful communication with other creates a circle of friends who are also part of a healthy lifestyle. Nutrition is another important factor, as the body greatly depends on the food people intake. Vitamins and minerals contained in fruits and vegetables provide energy and a strong metabolism to fight off illnesses and diseases (Fahey, Insel and Ruth 5).
After acquiring information about fitness and wellness, it will help adjust a person’s lifestyle. Light exercise in the morning, daily walks or bike rides will be enough to help the organism. Proper diet and regular check-ups will ensure that both mind and body are happy. Overall, it is clear that exercise is a very effective way to lead a healthy lifestyle. Environment, personal emotions, nutrition and interaction with others, all play a role in how strong and positive a person is.
Works Cited
Contrada, Richard. The handbook of stress science: Biology, psychology, and health. New York, NY: Springer Publishing Company, 2010. Print.
Fahey, Thomas, Paul Insel and Walton Ruth. Fit & Well, Whitby, Canada: McGraw-Hill Ryerson, 2010. Print.
Otto, Michael. Exercise for mood and anxiety: Proven strategies for overcoming depression. New York, NY: Oxford University Press, 2011. Print.