THE CONNECTION BETWEEN LACK OF EXERCISE AND THE BRAIN: Exercise increases the level of Serotonin, Norepinephrine, and Dopamine – neurotransmitters that impact our thoughts and emotions. However, it is not well known that toxic levels of stress erode the connections between billions of nerve cells in the brain. Chronic depression also shrinks certain areas of the brain. Conversely, exercise can unleash neurochemicals and growth factors that can reverse this process. Moving our muscles produces proteins that travel through the bloodstream and into the brain. The brain responds like muscles do – by growing with use, and enhancing brain function.
CONNECTION BETWEEN DEPRESSION AND EXERCISE: According to the World Health Organization depression is the leading cause of disability in Canada, ahead of coronary heart disease, any given cancer and AIDS. Research has shown that depression is caused by a deficit in three neurotransmitters – Serotonin, Norepinephrine. Current research is centered in trying to reverse that deficit with medication and/or exercise. Pain is related to depression. Endorphins, stress hormones calm the brain and relieve muscle pain. In Britain, doctors now use exercise as a first-line treatment for depression. In addition to elevating your mood when you exercise, you feel good about yourself.

EXERCISE THE BRAIN AND ADDICTION: Eighty percent of Individuals suffering from substance abuse also have a secondary diagnosis of depression and anxiety disorder. Individuals describe themselves as “feeling numb”. Natural forms of stimulation are “boring” against the vivid experience of the drug. As tolerance develops, it takes more and more of the drug to have the same initial intense “feeling.” Exercise increases the release of dopamine and endorphins produced by the body, and can have the same effect of a drug, producing a “natural high.” Many treatment centres now include exercise as an integral part of their programs.
GENDER DIFFERENCES ON EXERCICES EFFECT ON THE BRAIN: After adolescence, hormone levels remain relatively stable in men. However, for women they fluctuate like clockwork. Exercise is particularly important for woman as it tones down the negative consequences of hormonal changes, and for others enhances the positive. During pregnancy, exercise has been found to reduce nausea fatigue and joint and muscle pain. Studies suggest mothers who are fit have a lower incidence of post-partum depression. Overall exercise balances the system on a monthly basis as well as each stage of life, including pregnancy and menopause.