There is an evident relationship between body movement and brain function. Physical activities are not only necessary for keeping you fit; they also ensure a healthy brain and good memory. Movement of the body helps supply the brain cells with adequate oxygen, promotes the formation of new connections in the brain and makes you more active- both psychologically and physically.

Certain activities like dancing or exercises warm up your body and prepare you mentally to take on the challenges of everyday life. They increase concentration, memory, reduce stress and lead to better performance in every sphere of life.

Importance of movement to support brain health

• Engaging in dance and other body movements helps boost and facilitate creativity. You will notice improvements in cognitive function and it shall also uplift your mood. Daily practice will make you more creative. It has a powerful effect on the body and will open up endless possibilities for you.
• Remember that your body is inseparable from your mind and your perceptions, emotions and thinking are a reflection of what’s within you. A person’s mental state can be understood by observing his or her body movements. That is why, for a healthier and happier mind, you will need to keep your body in motion.

• Movement of the body can alleviate depression. With the release of happiness hormones such as dopamine or serotonin, you will notice that you feel less burdened with anxiety and gloominess. When you experience happiness, your stress and anxiety are reduced. Dance, exercises, walks and games can help regulate your emotions. As you learn new movements it also means you are aware of new feelings, a better understanding of self and you can overcome depression easily when your mind is occupied with positivity.
• Indulging in physical activities creates a change that is good for the brain. It helps you make new connections, tests your brain’s ability to adapt and quickly memorize patterns.

Physical movement helps the brain form neural pathways, which increases cognition, improve memory and help us to acquire knowledge faster. Physical activity also increases oxygen to the brain, which is critical for attention and learning.

Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD

Here are a few activities or movements that can boost your memory:

1.    Exercise

If you do regular stretching in between work or before work, you will be able to concentrate better. Mindfulness breathing and movement activities, like walks, swimming, cycling, etc. lead to enhanced cognitive functioning.

Researchers have found that people who exercise can rearrange and reconfigure the nerve connections in their brains. It can motivate them to do well, concentrate for longer periods and enhance learning.

2.    Dance

Dance therapy is directly linked to reducing the risk of Dementia. It increases your brain’s memory power and cognitive functioning. This therapy is beyond just dancing, it is a way of understanding how your body moves, integration and interaction of your mind and body. One of the benefits of dancing is that it allows you to make quick decisions. This trains your brain to react immediately and recall steps.

There are various ways to carry out the therapy, by using a certain type of music or no music and even involves talking. It plays an important role in emotional development as well.

3. Walk

People often say that if you want to take care of your brain, go on walks. Yes, you have heard it right. Taking regular walks shows positive changes. It not only improves your memory but also takes care of your cardiovascular health. Movements like brisk walking increase oxygen and blood flow to all parts of your body, including the brain. It is extremely beneficial for older people with signs of memory loss. 

4. Sports

Indulging in team games and sports can be very competitive and increase your brain function. Your mind and bodywork are in complete sync while playing. It requires you to remember the skills you have learned, improvise and be alert. These improve your natural reflexes and do magic for overall growth and development.

Conclusion:

It is very important to acknowledge your brain health and manage stress. While there are so many different techniques to improve memory, you must remember, what works for someone else may not work for you. You must follow an active lifestyle and remind yourself that moving has a positive impact on your mental health and it can delay memory and cognitive decline due to ageing. Choose what’s best for you, it helps protect your lifelong ability to remember and think.

If you are dealing with mental health problems, seek help from a psychiatrist and always be open to physical activities. It can be of great help in improving your mental and physical health.

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