Physical Exercise and Your Mental Fitness

After reading Steve Siebold's book "Die Fat or Get Tough", I began an exercise program.  I was motivated to apply Steve's idea that 99% compliance with my goal was insufficient for success.  I was determined to reach 100% compliance with my goal.  I exercised daily for over three months.  I felt better. 

I felt even better, when I read Dr. Amen's article on the power of physical exercise and mental fitness.  Dr. Amen talked about the 10 ways exercise helps obtain a "mental edge".  Exercise really helps in regard to memory loss and depression.

In my private practice, I have been asked to evaluate many people regarding memory loss.  I also have many clients that wish to depend on themselves rather than medications to improve the quality of their lives.  Regular physical exercise is an important way to nurture your brain.

I encourage you to read Dr.Amen's article if you are concerned about memory loss, depression, attention problems or cognitive anxiety.  Dr. Amen presented numerous research studies that shows physical exercises increase mental fitness.

Studies were reported that demonstrated the power of physical exercise on memory:

• Canadian researchers reported that exercise helps "prevent, delay and lesson the effects of dementia and Alzheimer's disease".
• Other researchers presented research that indicated that exercise can prevent and delay cognitive decline associated with dementia and Alzheimer's disease. 
• A study of people over 65 revealed that mild to moderate exercise reduced about 50% the risk of cognitive dementia associated with Alzheimer's disease.
• Australian researchers reported that memory impaired individuals who participated in a six-month exercise program showed a decrease in cognitive decline over 18 months.
• Indian researchers have stated that exercise provide some of the same benefits as medications used to treat cognitive decline in dementia and Alzheimer's disease.

Exercise also reduces the symptoms of depression.  Dr. Amen believes that exercise can be as effective as prescription medication for treating depression.  In a study comparing the effects of exercise and a prescription for Zoloft, exercise was as as effective as Zoloft in reducing depression after 12 weeks.  After 10 months, exercise was more effective than Zoloft.

Exercise is a very important ingredient for mental health and mental fitness.  No matter what how old a person is, it is never too late to start to exercise and improve your physical and mental well-being.

Remember We Live within the Minds and Bodies Created by Our Choices!

Dr. Hal

Life and Mental Fitness Coach

 

 

Comments

[Patty]

Interesting study. I've always believed there a connection between lack of exercise and depression, it's nice to see the research on this topic.

[Cindy]

I've never thought about linking proper exercise with memory loss. Depression-that makes sense.

[Sandra]

I totally agree that exercise is a vital way to continue to nurture your brain. Thanks for sharing those facts on how physical fitness can help lower your chance for getting those rare diseases. Those are important to keep in the back of your mind to give you the motivation you need.

[Amy]

I found this post really informative..You have the best point! Exercise can really help us to be physically and mentally fit. Thanks a lot!

[Carrie]

I found this blog from google and found this post really informative.You have the best point! Exercise can really help us to be physically and mentally fit. Thanks a lot.keep it up.

[Rock]

Very Nice Blog.. Keep it up