Running is not only an exercise that improves physical health, but also has a significant impact on brain activity.
Studies have shown that running can significantly increase the concentration of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the brain. BDNF is an important protein that plays a role in promoting neuronal growth, function, and survival in the nervous system, especially in the hippocampus, which is associated with learning and memory. Through running, the increase in BDNF promotes the production of new neurons, which improves the overall function of the brain and enhances learning and memory.
In addition, by increasing BDNF levels, running not only has a protective effect on existing nerve cells, but also promotes the repair of damaged nerves. This means that running not only improves current cognitive function, but also has the potential to prevent future cognitive deterioration.
Therefore, regular running can be seen as an effective way to exercise the brain, helping us to maintain or even improve our cognitive level and enhance our ability to solve complex problems.
In fact, many scientists and writers have recounted how running has brought clarity of thought and the generation of innovative ideas. For example, there are researchers who come up with new ways to solve complex problems while running, and there are authors who come up with key plots in the book during their morning runs.
This is not an accident, but the result of a combination of physical and psychological aspects of running. Running not only stimulates the body, but also stimulates the mind, providing motivation and inspiration for innovative and efficient work-study models.
Long-term benefit considerations
Numerous scientific studies have shown that people who run consistently have distinct advantages in memory, logical thinking, and problem-solving skills. Running improves overall cerebrovascular health by increasing blood flow to the brain, which promotes the vitality and growth of brain cells.
This process not only helps to strengthen existing neural connections, but also facilitates the formation of new ones. Over time, this biochemical change will have a profoundly positive impact on cognitive function, especially in memory and learning.
Running is also effective in slowing down the aging process of the brain and delaying or preventing the onset of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease. Studies have shown that long-term runners tend to be better than those who are inactive in areas such as concentration, logical reasoning, and spatial navigation.
Therefore, running as a long-term lifestyle habit is an extremely effective strategy for maintaining and improving brain health.
Focus & Flow
In today's fast-paced lifestyle, staying focused has never been more important. Running, as a simple and effective form of exercise, is not only beneficial to the body, but also has a significant effect on improving concentration and entering the flow state.
Physical activity while running increases blood circulation, increases oxygen supply to the brain, and makes the brain more active. This physiological change is fundamental to entering the flow state, which is an experience of total immersion in the current activity, with the individual's full attention and even forgetting the passage of time. Flow is often described as the feeling of "doing the right thing at the right time," and running provides the ideal conditions to reach that state.
Scientific studies have shown that running also increases the production of acetylcholine in the brain, a neurotransmitter that has a positive effect on improving concentration. The increase in acetylcholine can help us better filter out distracting information and focus on the task at hand, whether it is studying or working, so that we can become more efficient.
In addition, practice and research have shown that people who run regularly show greater durability and less mental fatigue when faced with tasks that require a long period of energy commitment. This is not only because running improves our physiology, but also because it builds a positive, well-engaged attitude towards work and study on a mental and emotional level.
Cultivating flow and focus through running not only enhances one's productivity and creativity, but also dramatically improves the overall quality of life.
Running philosophy and techniques
To get the most out of the psychological and physical benefits of running, it's important to master the right running technique.
It is recommended to exercise at least three times a week for more than 30 minutes each time to ensure that the brain receives a constant positive stimulus. Secondly, warm up before running and stretch properly after running, which can not only reduce the risk of injury, but also help the body recover better from the exercise, further enhancing the positive effect of the exercise.
Choosing a suitable environment, such as a park or nature trail, can increase the pleasure of running while reducing distractions in urban environments and making it easier for runners to enter a flow state. Adjusting the pace of running is also a science, and it is recommended to use a combination of aerobic running and interval running, which can not only improve physical endurance, but also promote blood circulation in the brain, stimulate more creativity and concentration.
Mindful running is recommended, where you consciously observe your body and your surroundings while running, rather than letting your mind wander aimlessly. This type of running can improve an individual's focus on the activity at hand, enhance self-awareness and emotional control, and thus improve performance and awareness and control of life.
Whether it's for physical fitness, mental balance, or intellectual growth, everyone should consider incorporating running into their lifestyle. It may be difficult and challenging at first, but with perseverance step by step, you will feel a noticeable change.
Do you feel clearer and clearer after your run? Welcome to leave a message to share!