Healing Effects of Exercise
We all know how important is to keep fit. Exercise isn’t just about aesthetics of feeling strong – its a powerful form of healing the body, mind and spirit.
Regular physical activities have healing effects on the human body and brain, allowing to improve its complex functioning processes. Moderate physical activity improves the process of rational understanding of the world and ensures targeted interaction with it. It's all about learning something new. This is expressed in improving information perception, processing and analysis, as well as improving memory and communication. Regular exercise supports the brain's rejuvenation processes, literally keeping the brain young so it can absorb new information easier.
Scientists have discovered the structure of the brain that only humans have, it is responsible for fine motor skills and for the human addiction to nicotine. As the portal Genetic Engineering & Biotechnology News clarifies, the results of the study are applicable to representatives of any age group. However, with age, the positive impact of physical exercise on the body only increases. The authors of the study suggested 132 volunteers between the ages of 20 and 67 to play various sports four times a week, for six months. Positive changes were found in all but the experiment participants who accurately followed the workload plan.
After completing the experiment, the specialists assessed the impact of exercises on memory: the ability to concentrate, aim, field orientation, activity organization and behavior control. Interestingly, aerobics classes were recognized to be the most effective. "We found that all participants who performed the exercise not only improved brain executive functions, but also increased thickness in the outer layer of the brain," explained leading specialist and author of the work, Jacob Stern. Previously, scientists at McMaster University (Canada) proved that physical activity helps older people avoid depression when it comes to systematic and daily simple walking.
Here is an overview of some top healing effects of exercise:
1. Mental & Emotional Healing
• Reduces anxiety and depression: Exercise boosts feel-good chemicals like endorphins, dopamine, and serotonin, helping regulate mood.
• Improves sleep: Physical activity resets your circadian rhythm and helps you fall into deeper, more restorative sleep.
• Boosts self-esteem & confidence: Regular movement builds a stronger connection to your body, which can shift how you see yourself.
• Stress relief: Physical exertion lowers cortisol levels (the stress hormone), helping you feel calmer and more balanced.
2. Physical Healing
• Reduces inflammation: Moderate exercise lowers chronic inflammation, which is at the root of many illnesses (like heart disease, diabetes, arthritis).
• Supports joint health: Movement keeps joints lubricated and muscles around them strong — especially important for preventing or managing pain.
• Speeds recovery: Gentle movement increases blood flow, oxygen delivery, and nutrient circulation — aiding healing from injuries or surgeries (with proper guidance).
• Strengthens immunity: Regular, moderate exercise improves immune function and helps the body fend off illness more effectively.
3. Hormonal Balance
• Regulates hormones: Especially helpful for those dealing with hormonal imbalances (PCOS, thyroid issues, menopause). Exercise can balance insulin, cortisol, and sex hormones.
• Improves metabolism: Builds lean muscle and increases metabolic rate, which supports long-term health and weight balance.
4. Brain & Nervous System
• Neuroplasticity: Exercise promotes the growth of new brain cells and strengthens neural connections, enhancing memory and learning.
• Alzheimer’s prevention: Regular physical activity is linked to reduced risk of cognitive decline and dementia.
5. Emotional Regulation & Grounding
• Movement (especially mindful movement like yoga, dance, or walking) helps reconnect you to your body, regulate emotions, and bring you into the present moment.
Bonus: Spiritual Healing
• Exercise, especially rhythmic or flowing types (like running, swimming, or yoga), can be meditative, helping you clear mental clutter and reconnect with yourself.
• Many people find clarity, purpose, or even a sense of transcendence during a workout — it can be its own form of prayer or meditation.
What’s your favorite way to exercise?.
We look forward to seeing you at our classes! xoxo