What causes the post-workout feeling of relaxation and well-being? What are the reasons that lead us to often describe sport/physical activity as rejuvenating?

Over the past 25 years, several studies have tried to demonstrate how physical activity directly affects neurogenesis, the body process of forming new brain cells (neurons).

In fact, although most neurons develop during the embryonic stage and the first two years of human life, neurogenesis continues to occur in youth and adulthood–albeit very slowly.

A study published in Frontiers in 2018 concludes that hippocampal neurogenesis, the process during which new neurons are generated and incorporated into hippocampal circuits, is mediated precisely by physical exercise.

Given the neuro-protective and cognitive benefits, particularly regarding memory and learning, physical activity is among the (few) factors that stimulate neurogenesis in humans.

So…have you exercised this week?

 

Source: Liu Patrick Z., Nusslock Robin, Exercise-Mediated Neurogenesis in the Hippocampus via BDNF, Frontiers in Neuroscience 12, 2018.