Research has shown that what is good for your heart is also good for your brain. What we eat, how much we move, how well we sleep, and how we manage stress affect nearly every aspect of our well-being, including physical and mental health.
It is common to think that health and longevity are genetic traits. While genes do determine 20 to 25% of our overall health quality, lifestyle habits and the environment have a much greater influence on how well or long we live. While some benefits of a healthy lifestyle won’t be realized for weeks or months, you will probably feel better immediately after a walk or other physical activity.
Exercise increases brain chemicals associated with feeling happy, feeling less anxiety and stress, and even less physical pain. Getting more movement can also help some people relieve feelings of depression.
Other positive lifestyle habits will bring results quickly. Eating well and getting good rest will pay immediate dividends on your mental outlook and energy level.
By: Jamie Rathbun
