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(BPT) – When we think of exercise, we generally think of the physical benefits: a healthier heart, stronger bones and the ability to practice our favorite activities. But there could also be significant mental benefits that are just as vital to our overall health and well-being. In fact, even a small amount of movement can help brain function, which is great news for people with reduced mobility due to an injury or illness.
"The activity, whether small or large, requires planning, sequencing and coordination and thus connects the mind and body," said Dr. Sanjay Iyer, neurologist at the University of Toronto. Institute of Physical Neuroscience, Neurology, Charlotte. "Exercise can help restore the balance of certain chemicals in the brain, which can promote a general sense of well-being and improve memory and motor skills."
The fact is that moving your body is good for the brain – but not moving can be harmful.
"We know that if you do nothing, no exercise, your brain function, your cognitive abilities, your IQ and your speed of information processing decrease by about 5% every 10 years," explained Dr. Michael F. Roizen, Health Welfare Officer. Cleveland Clinic.
Physical movement could even spark creativity. A study conducted in 2014 by Stanford University found that participants who walked on a treadmill and who sat during various cognitive tests showed an 81% increase in their creativity.
Do you want to improve your memory and your mental health even more? Harness the power of nature. Taking your workout outdoors – or just walking around a park – can strengthen your brain. A study by Psychological Science found that when participants wandered in an arboretum, their short-term memory increased by 20% – but showed no increase after a walk through the streets of the city.
"Going outside and taking fresh air promotes the feeling of well-being by increasing vitamin D levels through exposure to the sun," Dr. Iyer said. "As one exercises and one's heart rate increases, the brain circulation improves, which helps optimize mood and cognition."
Becoming physically and mentally active has never been so easy for some members of UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage, thanks to Renew Active. Renew Active is a combination resource package designed to help people be physically and mentally fit, designed around personal goals for your mind and body. It is available at no additional cost.
Renew Active provides standard access to participating national and local fitness centers to help keep you moving. The program also offers brain games online to help keep your brain active.
In conclusion: "Regardless of your current level of health or fitness, just keep moving," Roizen said. "Any physical activity, no matter how small, is better for mental health than it is at all."
You know your body better, but it's always a good idea to talk to your doctor before starting any new exercise program. Plus, he may have some brain stimulating exercise ideas that suit you perfectly.
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The plans are provided by UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company or one of its affiliates, a Medicare Advantage organization having a contract with Medicare. Subscription to these plans depends on the renewal of the Medicare contract.
Participation in UnitedHealthcare's Renew Active (TM) program is voluntary. Consult your doctor before starting an exercise program or changing your lifestyle or your health care routine. The equipment and clbades may vary by location. Services, including equipment, clbades, custom fitness plans provided by fitness centers and brain activities provided by BrainHQ, are provided by third parties not affiliated with AARP or UnitedHealthcare. AARP and UnitedHealthcare do not endorse and are not responsible for the services or information provided by this program. The availability of the Renew Active (TM) program varies by plan / region. Renew Active is not a standard benefit available on all fronts. Some plans require the purchase of an additional fitness runner.
Renew by UnitedHealthcare is not available in all packages.
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