Studies
have shown that students who regularly participate in exercise have better
grades than those who do not; is there a causal connection between the exercise
and better grades or is it discipline that students display across both
studying and exercising that is the determinant?
The evidence showing that
regular exercise should be a component of our lives is compelling and is being
expanded upon with regard to the physical and mental benefits; it's so good for you! So how can it help you be a
better student?
Feeling down? The demands of school can sometimes be
overwhelming, especially when combined with work schedules, home life…the list
of stressors goes on. Exercise has been shown to positively affect mood,
lowering stress and anxiety. Physical activity
stimulates various brain chemicals that are believed to leave you feeling
happier and more relaxed. Think about using exercise as a time to
decompress, or alternatively, an opportunity to reconnect with family members.
Remember, exercise can be as simple as taking a walk, playing Frisbee, even
housecleaning…yes, it counts, but really?
Too tired to study? Regular physical
activity can not only improve your muscle strength and boost your endurance,
but it also helps your cardiovascular system work more efficiently. And when
your heart and lungs work more efficiently, you have more energy to go about
your daily chores, and that includes studying. Regular exercise can also help you sleep better, which in turn helps
renew your energy.
Get
laser focus. In order to study effectively, a certain level of
focus on the material is required; even moderate exercise can help. Physical
activity is key to improving mental alertness and improving the capacity to
concentrate. A short burst of vigorous exercise, even as short as 10 minutes,
is said to improve the ability to focus and stay alert. Increased blood flow to
the brain is thought to be the reason behind improved alertness.
Keep
your chin up! Regular
exercise helps boost self-esteem. It’s not only the physical changes (body
composition) that help self-esteem improve, but the fact that you’re making a
commitment to your own well-being is empowering. Further, a boost in
self-esteem may help you participate more fully in class as well as in social
situations.
What
are some easy solutions to getting much needed exercise? Even if you don’t have
the opportunity to get to the gym, you can add activity to your daily routine:
- Park
farther away from the entrance to your job, the grocery, or to classes
while you are on campus.
- If
sitting at the computer, stand up and stretch, do jumping jacks, push-ups,
or some other form of calisthenics. Encourage others to participate.
- Take
the stairs!
- Breathe!
Read the blog entry on breathing at http://usgemajor.blogspot.com/2015/08/stressed-about-school.html
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