Effect of physical activity on men’s and women’s brains

I saw an article about a study of “cognitive reserve, or the brain’s ability to withstand the effects of diseases like Alzheimer’s without showing a decline in thinking or memory skills.”

Main point: “Exercising your body and mind can help stave off memory problems as you age, and some of these benefits may be even greater for women.”

More about it:

• “Women, but not men, had greater cognitive reserves if they exercised regularly and took classes, read or played games.”
• “Taking part in more mental activities improved thinking speed for both women and men.”

Why it matters:

• “Begin building that cognitive reserve now, so the money is in the bank for down the road if our brains need it.”
• “It is never too early or too late to engage in physically and mentally stimulating activities, and it is a good idea to try new activities to continue challenging the brain, mind and body to learn and adapt.”
• “Women who reported more physical activity had a greater thinking speed reserve.”
• “Exercise regularly, eat a healthy Mediterranean-style diet, get good sleep, avoid stress, alcohol and smoking, and manage your diabetes and high blood pressure.”
• “”The age of prevention is upon us, and we can delay the onset of cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s or slow it down with these prevention methods.”

Why Nordic walking can be mentally stimulating:

• Coordination and Motor Skills: Nordic walking requires coordination between the arms and legs, using poles for support and propulsion. This coordination engages the brain, enhancing motor skills and encouraging neurological connections.
• Spatial Awareness and Navigation: As you walk, especially in varying terrains or routes, you need to be constantly aware of your surroundings. This stimulates the brain’s navigational skills and spatial awareness, keeping the mind active and engaged.
• Cognitive Challenges: Learning and mastering the technique of Nordic walking itself can be a cognitive challenge. For beginners, understanding the correct use of poles and synchronizing their movements with their steps requires focus and concentration.
• Mindfulness and Sensory Engagement: Nordic walking can be a form of moving meditation. Paying attention to your movements, breathing, and the environment (like the sound of the poles hitting the ground, the feel of the terrain underfoot, the sights and sounds of nature) can be mentally engaging and therapeutic.
• Social Interaction: If done in a group, Nordic walking provides opportunities for social interaction, conversation, and connection with others, which can be mentally stimulating and beneficial for cognitive health.
• Stress Reduction and Mental Clarity: Physical activities like Nordic walking help in reducing stress and anxiety, leading to clearer thinking and better mental focus. The rhythmic nature of walking combined with deep breathing can have a calming effect on the mind.
• Learning and Adaptation: As you encounter different types of terrain or weather conditions, you have to adapt your walking technique. This adaptability challenges the brain, keeping it active and engaged.
• Setting and Achieving Goals: Engaging in Nordic walking allows for setting personal goals, whether they’re related to distance, speed, or mastering technique. Working towards and achieving these goals can be mentally rewarding and stimulating.

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