The connection between physical and mental health

May 1, 2012 by

In my last article I emphasized the importance of particular micronutrients, such as Omega 3 fatty acids and Vitamin D, optimally obtained from a well balanced, high nutrient diet. Today I would like to share some exciting scientific discoveries proving the impact of exercise on mental health. Long-distance runners and triathletes have frequently been observing the “runner’s high”. With the help of fMRI (functional MRI) studies, cognitive neuroscience is now able to observe the physiological correlates of this phenomenon. When we work out, preferably aerobically, and keep our heartbeat in a particular range resulting from a medium impact workout, incredible effects are being noticed. Our brains release endorphins which connect to the, go figure, opiate receptors in certain areas of the brain. Yes, they are called opiate receptors for a reason; with a very important distinction though. This gentle high is rather uncostly and appears to have no negative side effects. Actually the opposite is the case, as additional benefits are being observed in the brain, such as the regulation of neurotransmitters like serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine. The increased blood flow and stimulation of new cell growth has been shown to slow degenerative processes like Alzheimer’s, inprove executive functioning in ADHD patients, and alleviate mild to moderate mood and anxiety disorders. Especially for the prevention of these common psychiatric problems regular exercise seems to be superior to medication management. For more in depth reading you can visit www.diseaseproof.com or http://www.health.harvard.edu/ , the Harvard Medical School’s Health Publication’s web page.

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Filed Under: Integrative Wellness, Mental Wellness, Physical Health
About Udo Fischer

My name is Udo Fischer and I have been practicing psychotherapy in Naples for five years. Trained in clinical psychology and neuropsychology in Europe I further deepened my skills at the Beck Institute for Cognitive Behavior Therapy in Philadelphia. In Germany I conducted research with Prof. Dr. Rainer Sachse, a thought leader in the treatment of somatoform and personality disorders. A second mentor was Prof. Dr. Dietmar Schulte, president of the German Behavior Therapy Association and leading researcher for the treatment of mood and anxiety disorders.
Besides resolving clinical issues I apply a communication, conflict management, mediation approach that has been successfully applied in corporate and diplomatic contexts as well. My success rate with couples in crises is 100% assumed that both parties are motivated to resolve their issues amicably.