PSY-FX
on Physical Activity
The science of Psy-Fx on health through physical activity
Some epidemiological data has shown that there is a positive association between physical activity and mental well being in the U.S. and Canada. In a recent study conducted at Princeton University, it was shown that exercise promotes the growth of neurons in the ventral hypocampus, which causes your brain to reorganize itself. The brain of an active person responds to stress by releasing a neurotransmitter called, GABA. The neurotransmitter, GABA, is pretty much the boss of the brain because it is responsible for keeping it in check.
Physical fitness positively influences six dimensions of well-being
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Self-acceptance: Having positive views of oneself
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Positive relation to others: Keeping trusting, caring, and empathetic relationships
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Autonomy: Being self-determined with intrinsic motivation and self-referenced standards
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Environmental mastery: Holding an effective mastery of the environment to fulfill personal values
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Personal growth: Having a sense of development and feeling self- fulfilled over time
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Purpose in life: Having a direction toward purposeful goals for living
The six dimensions of well being
ABOUT Psy-Fx
Physical Activity affects your psychology...
Reality or Myth?
Reality!
Physical activity has often been known for keeping in shape or losing weight but not much people know the other aspect to exercising. Being physically active is great for distressing, improving your mood and overall well-being. Taking half an hour to an hour off of your busy daily schedule can provide a tremendous benefit into your everyday lifestyle!
Some ways that physical activity can benefit us:
- Improve self esteem
- Improve body image
- Decrease symptoms of depression and anxiety
- Improve confidence
- Maintain youth
How much exercise is enough?
Being physically active is important to maintain a healthy body and preventing unnecessary diseases. When people start daily exercising, many would question: How much time would I have to invest into exercising?
As recommended by the American Heart Association:
- Thirty minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity, at least five days a week
- Twenty-five minutes of vigorous aerobic activity, at least three days a week
To learn more, check out the American Heart Association website: http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/
Additional Info.
Runner's High
Running can have more affects than just increasing VO2 Max. After running, Anandamide is released found in large quantities in the bloodstream. It is believed that this endocanabinoid is able to go through the blood-brain barrier, causing runners to feel decreased anxiety and pain after high-intensity aerobic activity.
For some helpful tips on running.. check out this site: http://www.justrun.org/tools-success
References
"Psychological Benefits of Exercise." Association for Applied Sport Psychology: Psychological Benefits of Exercise. N.p., n.d. Web. 11 Apr. 2017.
"American Heart Association Recommendations for Physical Activity in Adults." American Heart
Association. N.p., 27 July 2016. Web. 11 Apr. 2017.
D. (2013, July 09). How Exercise Rewires Your Brain. Retrieved April 12, 2017, from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Aj_5SGdx7Xk&feature=youtu.be
http://cen.acs.org/articles/93/web/2015/10/Exploring-Molecular-Basis-Runners-High.html