The fourth installment of the NeuroNetwork for Emerging Therapies Mini Symposium Series explores the effects of exercise on the nervous system and brain health.
Have you ever heard the phrase “a runner’s high?” This is a real phenomenum that is caused by a rush of endorphins. Exercise also stimulates the release of dopamine, norephinephrine and serotonin, all important brain chemicals that can relieve pain, reduce stress, and promote and improve mental sharpness and a positive sense of well-being.
Dr. Eva Feldman MD PhD, Director of the NeuroNetwork for Emerging Therapies, moderates the 30-minute symposium. She will also explain the scientific basis of the beneficial effects of exercise on the brain.
Jacob Haus PhD, Associate Professor of Movement Science and Director of the Human Bioenergetics Laboratory, is a physiologist at the School of Kinesiology. His research centers on strategies to prevent and treat the negative effects associated with aging, obesity and diabetes. Dr. Haus places special emphasis on integrative physiology (whole body function) and how intensive lifestyle interventions elicit positive changes in the body…in this case cognition.
Brett Knight, Program Manager of Physical Activity at MHealthy, before the Q&A, concludes by discussing the benefits expected with habitual physical activity on a practical level and will give recommendations on starting, maintaining and progressing with exercise plans. “At MHealthy, we are working to establish the culture that movement is for everybody, and even though it may look different from person to person, every movement counts and is important.”