If you have a desire to think better then move. I do not mean change residencies but rather “shake that booty.” Movement is an effective way to release a protein known as brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) This protein substance nurtures the creation of new brain cells, protects existing neurons, and helps the brain to make new neural connections. Research has shown that there is decreased levels of BDNF in people with Alzheimer’s disease. According to neurosurgeon Sanjay Gupta, movement, among all the lifestyle factors, has been found to be the number one way to increase BDNF in the body (Sanjay, 2022).
Although going to the gym and developing a workout routine can be an excellent way to improve your life, it can become boring and even dreaded. We can move in hundreds of ways other than just establishing a workout regimen. It can be helpful to include movement exercise into your everyday routine. For example, instead of driving around the parking lot at the grocery store trying to find the closest parking spot to the entrance, park at a distance from the door to help increase the number of steps you walk. Whenever the opportunity arises, take the stairs instead of the elevator. If you have a desk job or even while at home take a 5 minute walk every hour.
If you have an Apple watch or a Smart phone, you can use your Fitness App to measure the number of steps you take and the miles you walk per day. Try setting a daily goal. Try to establish a SMART goal. S stands for specific, M stands for measurable, A stands for action-oriented, R stands for realistic, and T stands for timely. You want a goal that is measurable.
Try to make it fun by doing things that are enjoyable. Get creative. Go dancing or turn the music on and dance in the kitchen while you are cooking. Try learning a new dance. There are bunches of dance instructors on YouTube. Now I am trying learn to how to do the Salsa. Pick up a new sport like pickleball. Find a hiking or walking buddy. There are unlimited ways to Shake That Booty!
