Kris Tynan says YES!

Your brain LOVES exercise!
You may have heard of the term ‘neuroplasticity’.

The ‘plastic’ part of that word refers to our brain’s incredible ability to reorganise and rewire itself.

Research shows that this quality staves off the effects of MCI (Mild Cognitive Impairment) and the more serious brain issues like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.

Previously we believed that brain cell numbers declined with age and there was nothing to be done about it.

It turns out that this is bunkum!
It is possible to retrain your brain AT ANY AGE.

‘Miracle-Gro’ for the Brain

Exercise is crucial to neuroplasticity because it promotes the production of BDNF (Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor) which is like “Miracle-Gro” for our brain.

It  ‘fertilises’ axonal sprouting (when nerve dendrites reach out and reconnect with other nerve networks bypassing damaged neurons.)

Pretty cool huh?

So what sort of exercise helps with increasing BDNF?

Anything that raises your heart rate and gets you huffing and puffing.

Walking briskly, cycling, dancing, swimming or taking classes will all make you work a little harder than normal.

Try to do at least 20-30 minutes most days.

Think of exercise as medicine…

It is never too early to start and never too late to begin.

Watch out for more great exercise and lifestyle tips from Kris Tynan next month.

Kris has developed a unique exercise kit, complete with helpful exercise routines. You can buy her Super Senior Kit Home Exercise Programme from our Memory Shop for $59.00.