**SPONSORED CONTENT BY DR. SCOTT DUNAWAY WITH CLARKSVILLE CHIROPRACTIC**
The exercise industry is a multi-billion dollar industry, but there is little focus on Exercise for our youngsters, so we tend to forget how detrimental a lack of exercise can be for our children. It is not uncommon for children these days to spend 5 hours a day in front of some kind of device (TV, smart phone, computer, etc.), and when spending 7 hours in a classroom, and hopefully 7-8 hours sleeping, it doesn’t leave much time to get outside and be active. Running around outside and playing tag does more than just provide a healthy outlet for excess energy, it primes the brain for growth and learning. Dr. John Ratey, a Harvard Medical School psychiatrist, discusses how vitally important exercise is to the brain, “Exercise is the best thing you can do for your brain in terms of mood, memory, and learning.”
The brain however has an amazing ability to grow new cells, and sprout new connections as we learn about new subjects or engage new activities. Sitting in a classroom is only one way to “exercise” the brain, and is only part of the equation to a healthy brain. Exercise floods the brain and nervous system with neurochemicals that act like Miracle Grow for the seeds that our education plants. This activity outside of the classroom grows all parts of the brain, especially a portion of our brain called the hippocampus. This part of the brain is essential for learning and just so happens to be the most influenced by exercise, or lack thereof. Simply put, more exercise results in larger hippocampus, which results in improved cognitive function, better attention span, and improved memory.
With this in mind, I propose a challenge. Take your children outside and allow them to release the Miracle Grow their brain so desperately needs, and teach your kids the importance of regular exercise for both physical and mental benefits. How much you ask? Most recent studies suggest 30-45 minutes of moderate activity 3-5 times a week is a good place to start. The activity itself is not important, but more important is the exercise be enjoyable to the child. Let’s help get them moving, their development depends on it!
If you would like to talk with the staff or doctors of Clarksville Chiropractic about this topic further, simply call and request your free consultation. 931-647-3692 or find them on Facebook here.