THE SCIENCE - Why Moving Your Body Transforms Your Mind and Life

Peer reviewed by Dr. Peter Rawlek, MD & Scott Rollo, PhD

You’ve probably heard that physical activity is good for you, but why is it so powerful? The secret lies in the amazing ways movement affects your brain and body. From boosting your mood to sharpening your focus, here’s how it works and why it matters.

1. Emotional Well-Being: The Power of Feel-Good Chemicals

Ever feel happier after a workout or a quick walk? That’s because physical activity triggers the release of chemicals like endorphins and anandamide.

• Endorphins: Often called “natural painkillers,” endorphins are released during exercise and help reduce stress, increase happiness, and create a sense of well-being.

• Anandamide: Known as the “bliss molecule,” this chemical boosts your mood and promotes relaxation.

Physical activity also improves the flow of tryptophan, a building block for serotonin—the chemical that helps regulate mood and sleep. Together, these effects make you feel calmer and more positive, even on tough days.

Try this: Next time you’re feeling down, try jogging, dancing, or playing a sport. Notice how your mood improves as you move.

2. Mental Health: Stress Relief and Brain Balance

Exercise is like therapy for your brain. It reduces stress by lowering levels of cortisol, a hormone linked to anxiety. Moving your body also strengthens your brain’s ability to manage emotions, making it easier to cope with life’s challenges.

Here’s how:

• Regular activity helps balance neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin, which are crucial for mental health.

• Exercise improves brain plasticity, meaning your brain becomes better at adapting to new situations and solving problems.

In short, physical activity doesn’t just make you feel good—it helps you stay resilient.

Reflect on this: How might staying active help you deal with stressful situations like exams or conflicts with friends?

3. Academic Achievement: Fuel for Your Brain

Physical activity doesn’t just make your body strong—it makes your brain sharper, too. Movement increases blood flow to the brain, delivering oxygen and nutrients that improve focus, memory, and problem-solving skills.

Key pathways include:

• Boosted production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which helps grow and strengthen brain cells.

• Enhanced neurochemical activity, which improves concentration and cognitive function.

Students who are physically active often report better grades, fewer behavioral issues, and greater engagement in learning.

Try this: Before studying, go for a quick walk or do 10 minutes of stretches. Notice how much more focused you feel.

Takeaway

Physical activity works wonders by releasing mood-boosting chemicals, balancing your brain, and improving focus. Whether you’re managing stress, lifting your mood, or boosting your brainpower, moving your body is one of the best tools you have.

Take a moment to reflect: What’s one activity you could add to your daily routine to support your well-being? Give it a try—you might be surprised at how much better you feel!