Can Physical Activity Improve My Concentration
Can Physical Activity Improve My Concentration

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Can Physical Activity Improve My Concentration

Can Physical Activity Improve My Concentration

The short answer is “yes.” Physical exercise can improve your concentration, especially if you are experiencing perimenopause. Science suggests that exercising releases more of the chemical compounds that your brain thrives on, thus improving your ability to focus. Read on for more information about how physical activity can help your concentration.

How does exercise help?

In addition to its direct effects on mental performance, physical activity can also progress concentration by improving overall health. Feeling tired, sick and in constant pain can take a toll on mental health, especially the ability to concentrate on the numerous tasks you have to complete throughout the course of the day. Developing a regular exercise routine can combat many of the symptoms of menopause that make it difficult to concentrate, such as depression, anxiety and fatigue.

If you find it hard to concentrate on everyday tasks, both simple and complex, starting a workout routine can yield noticeable results. A good workout can heighten alertness and prevent memory loss by preventing brain tissue from shrinking or decaying. Working out can also decrease the threat of developing high blood pressure and other conditions that can cause short-term memory loss.

Which exercises are best for my concentration?

In order to improve concentration, it’s important to incorporate both cardio and relaxation into your workout routine. The cardio will deliver more oxygen and nutrients to your brain while relaxation techniques help to restore the mind during resting phases.

Walking
Taking a brisk walk every day for about 35 minutes will help you clear your mind and get more oxygen to the brain.

Tai chi
This martial art was created in China and helps your mind seek out puddles of energy in the body that you’re not using. The boost in vigor sharpens your concentration.

Yoga
This exercise is the perfect blend of mental stimulation and physical challenge. A 2007 study conducted by the American College of Sports Medicine found that yoga improves concentration and decreases feelings of anxiety in as little as two months of routine sessions. Among the types of yoga that provide maximum benefit for concentration are Dharana and Pranayama.

More Information about Improving Concentration:

Other lifestyle changes, such as getting adequate sleep and eating foods rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, can also help improve concentration. Click the following link for more tips on treating a lack of concentration.

Other Related Articles:
8 Lifestyle Changes to Improve the Concentration Skills you Lose during Menopause
Q&A: Why am I finding it hard to concentrate during menopause?
How to Recognize a Lack of Concentration due to Menopause

Sources:
  • Hutchinson, Susan M.D. "The Stages of a Woman's Life: Menstruation, Pregnancy, Nursing, Perimenopause, Menopause". November 2007.
  • Love, Susan M.D. "Menopause and Hormone Book". New York: Three Rivers Press, 2003.
  • BMJ Group. "Menopause: What is it?" Patient Leaflet. 2007.