How Does Exercise Affect The Mind?

The feeling of euphoria experienced by distance runners when they complete a run or cross the finish line in a race, commonly known as "runner's high," is more than just a myth. Likewise, the feeling of clarity and concentration that comes after a hike, swim or yoga session is more than just a product of mystic zen principles. Regular cardiovascular exercise has been proven to strengthen the mind as well as the body, producing results ranging from stress relief to improved focus and memory.

What Happens in the Brain

Regular, sustained exercise -- whether from a team sport, individual sport, workout regimen or even just a simple walk or hike -- allows the human body to secrete a cocktail of powerful neurochemicals in the brain. The chemical anandamide rewards the athlete with a feeling of elation; dopamine allows an athlete to focus and stay "in the zone" -- epinephrine jolts an athlete with an extra dose of energy; serotonin keeps an athlete feeling relaxed and confident; and endorphins work as the body's natural pain-killers. Releasing those neurochemicals repeatedly teaches the brain to crave that experience more and more, much like a person can become hooked on synthetic drugs -- only these neurochemicals are beneficial and naturally produced.

Exercise as Therapy

One of the greatest benefits of exercise is that it provides a safe, low-cost method of stress relief. While stress isn't always a bad thing -- it can actually drive you to achieve your goals or accomplish a task -- too much stress can lead to high blood pressure and cholesterol, weight gain and memory loss. Exercise, however, not only keeps the body's weight in check, but also lowers the body's level of the cortisol, which the brain interprets as a signal of stress.

Exercise as a Sleep-Aid

If you have difficulty falling asleep at night, you could seek the help of over-the-counter or prescription medicine, or you could make regular exercise a part of your lifestyle. According to the Mayo Clinic, "Regular physical activity can help you fall asleep faster and deepen your sleep." Better sleep improves your alertness and powers of concentration. However, be careful about when you exercise. Working out too late in the day, especially in the hours just before sleep, can leave the body running at full speed when it should be winding down.

Exercise as Rehab

While regular exercise can help you create many positive habits, it can also be one of the most powerful tools for breaking destructive habits. Because of the release of dopamine and serotonin during exercise, the brain can learn to replace the high of a chemical dependency with the rush that comes from a good workout. Groups like Phoenix Multisport offer recovering drug and alcohol addicts a healthy way to break their habits. The program also teaches a positive way to fill your free time and a means of socializing with other athletes trying to get clean. Not only does exercise replace the feeling of getting high, it also gives athletes the psychological boost of knowing they can achieve their goals, whether in recovery or sports.