Science Says It’s Real: How Movement Heals the Brain

You’ve heard us talk about how movement heals the mind, but this isn’t just a catchy phrase. It’s backed by hard science.

Your Brain on Movement

When you engage in aerobic exercise, running, biking, dancing, even brisk walking, your brain starts to rewire itself. That’s neuroplasticity: your brain’s ability to adapt, grow, and heal. These workouts trigger the release of BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor), a protein that supports learning, memory, and emotional resilience.

This isn’t just about feeling better after a workout. It’s about changing the way your brain responds to stress and setbacks, long-term.

As Effective as Therapy or Antidepressants?

Yes, according to recent meta-analyses, regular physical activity can be just as effective as antidepressants or therapy in treating depression and anxiety. We’re talking about clinical-strength results without a prescription.

You don’t need to be the fastest or the strongest.
You just need to move—with intention, with consistency, and with care.

What This Means for You

If you’re struggling mentally, movement can be one of your tools. Not a cure-all, but a powerful part of the solution. You’re not doing it wrong if you start small. A few minutes of movement could be the start of something real—physically, emotionally, and neurologically.

Sources: 

• https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/exercise-and-mental-health?utm_source=
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neurobiological_effects_of_physical_exercise?utm_source=
• Neuroplasticity & BDNF:

  • Aerobic exercise enhances neuroplasticity by increasing BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor), aiding learning, memory, and resilience.

  • Source: Ratey, J. J. (2008). Spark: The Revolutionary New Science of Exercise and the Brain.

  • Source: Szuhany, K. L., Bugatti, M., & Otto, M. W. (2015). “A meta-analytic review of the effects of exercise on brain-derived neurotrophic factor.” Journal of Psychiatric Research. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpsychires.2014.11.018

• Exercise vs Antidepressants:

  • Meta-analyses show regular exercise has similar effectiveness to antidepressants or cognitive therapy in mild to moderate depression.

  • Source: Cooney, G.M., et al. (2013). "Exercise for depression." Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. https://doi.org/10.1002/14651858.CD004366.pub6

  • Source: Singh, B. et al. (2023). “Comparative effectiveness of exercise and pharmacological interventions in reducing symptoms of depression.” BMJ. https://www.bmj.com/content/384/bmj-2023-075847