10 minutes of running improves brain function
The researchers concluded that running increases blood flow to different parts of the prefrontal cortex, which plays an important role in controlling mood
Running improves the health of the heart and blood vessels, strengthens muscles, and improves bone strength. In addition to these physical benefits, running is associated with better mental health.
A team of scientists from Tsukuba University in Japan recently completed a study that showed that just 10 minutes of running at a moderate intensity improves both mood and brain function.
The researchers concluded that running increases blood flow to different parts of the prefrontal cortex, which plays an important role in controlling mood and executive functions. It also increases blood circulation, which can also favor brain activity.
For the study, they selected volunteers who ran on the treadmill for 10 minutes. They concluded that running resulted in a significantly increased level of excitement and enjoyment compared to the resting control group.
- According to our knowledge, running with moderate intensity has a beneficial effect on positive mood and improving brain function - the authors said.
Co-authors Chorphaka Damrongthai and Professor Hideaki Soya admitted they were surprised by the results.
- The results surprised us, because 10 minutes of moderate running improves not only the executive function but also the positive mood that coincides with bilateral prefrontal activation - they concluded.
Less fear of failure
When you are just starting to run, it is recommended to alternate walking intervals and running intervals. You will soon see progress; that is, the running intervals will be longer and longer and you will be proud of your success. This will definitely have a positive effect on your mental health. However, sometimes it will happen that you cannot run the set distance or maybe run a certain number of minutes that you imagined. This is quite normal and when you accept it, you will find it easier to deal with similar situations in other aspects of life. You will accept that the path to a certain goal has its ups and downs and you will not allow a certain failure to shake your self-confidence.
Better sleep
If you have trouble sleeping, maybe running is the solution! Research has shown that running can lead to improved sleep quality and potentially solve the problem of insomnia. Namely, people who run usually fall asleep faster and have better quality sleep. The reason for that lies in the release of endorphins after running, which help relax the muscles, which has a positive effect on sleep.
