Are you THRIVE-ing? I hope so! In the last three weeks I’ve introduced to you my 4 step plan for building a better Body, Brain and ultimately more Bliss. We’ve taken a look at ourselves and worked towards creating A Vision for what we want our lives to look like and who we really are. You can’t know where are going unless you take a look at yourself now.
(Check out all my previous THRIVE series blogs here)
The difference between pipe dreams and living the life you envision is taking Action! Last week we worked on initial Action steps for MOVE-ing and EAT-ing that would bring a new reality into focus.
This week is all about your BRAIN! Changing your Attitude! Build a better Brain!
Your attitude is made up of how your brain thinks and how you feel. Your Body, Brains, and Bliss (how you feel) are all connected and must all be healthy in order to THRIVE. Luckily, you can use the same tool to work on your Body, your Brains, and your Bliss… that tool is exercise!
Exercise causes all sorts of reactions in your brain and body—increased blood and oxygen flow to the brain, increased ability to focus—a perfect combination of reactions for a strong and smart brain!
Around the age of 40, we begin to lose brain volume—about 5% per decade! On top of that, it becomes harder for our brains to create new cells. The good news is that studies have shown that exercise releases a brain-derived neurotrophin (BDNF), which acts as a fertilizer for our brains and stimulates the growth of new nerve cells. Even just one intense workout will produce BDNF
On top of producing BDNF, intense physical activity stimulates the productions of endorphins in the brain, which give us a feeling of euphoria. Intense activity also stimulates the release of a slew of feel-good chemicals: adrenaline, serotonin, dopamine, and endocannabionids.
Additionally, scientists have explored how exercise is linked to mental health, and have found that exercise lessens the symptoms of anxiety and depression and lowers levels of stress and anger.
Simply put, exercise improves your mood, decreases your stress, and makes you feel like you have more energy. Getting fit will shape up your Body, Brains, and Bliss!
For more fascinating info on the Body, Brains, and Bliss connection, read Chapter 3 Prepare Your Attitude: Build a Better Brain in Dr. Vonda Wright’s Guide to THRIVE!
Now go take a walk and fertilize your brain!