Sound Mind In Sound Body
– N K Tripathi
“A sound mind in a sound body” is the English translation of a famous quotation by the pre-Socratic Greek philosopher Thales. He demonstrated the close links between physical exercise, mental equilibrium, and the ability to enjoy life. The concept has not changed even in this era of hectic research in medical field.
Cognitive power and physical health are closely linked. Cognitive powers are skills the brain uses to complete essential day-to-day tasks like thinking, learning, reading, remembering, speaking, listening and paying attention. Recent researchers have suggested that regular exercise improves cognitive function, boosts memory, and enhances problem-solving skills. Physical activity stimulates blood flow to the brain, promoting new neuron growth. Regular exercise can reduce inflammation. Inflammation can damage brain cells leading to cognitive decline.
Almost everyone knows that diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease can negatively affect the body and the mood. This can have impact on cognitive function.
Physical exercise tends to give better sleep. Lack of sleep or poor sleep are linked to physical health issues which can impair cognitive performance. Like good sleep, nutrition and diet also play a crucial role in supporting both physical and cognitive health. It is also interesting to note that, vice versa, the good mental equilibrium helps in maintaining good bodily health. Cognitive stimulation helps in maintaining good health by avoiding stress.
Someone has recently written that scientific research now suggests that cognitive fitness, regardless of age, may heavily depend on the health of various body parts like the heart, liver, bones, muscles and the immune system. The University of Melbourne and the University of Cambridge specifically assert that poor physical health can alter brain structure, leading to mental health issues such as depression.
Whatever your age, sex or physical shape, you resolve to start from tomorrow any type of physical exercise. Prioritise physical health in your imagined busy life.
