Being an adult and a parent can be exhausting! In addition to your duties in the house and at work, you are responsible for the health and well-being of your kids.

That includes being their chauffeur, their chef and the bedtime enforcer. After each long day, it can be really hard to find the motivation to turn your focus to your own health.

However, it is so important to take care of your body and brain now so that you can reduce your risk for many different diseases and conditions later in life. One condition that becomes more common is dementia.

Our AFC Urgent Care Sevierville team explains the relationship between dementia and staying physically and mentally active below, so read on to learn more.

How Does Exercise Support My Brain Health?

We all know that exercise is a mood booster, but it does more than just provide you with endorphins! When you work out, your blood flow increases and brings fresh oxygen all over your body. This increase in blood flow helps you build stronger neural connections and can control your blood pressure.

In addition, it can reduce your stress levels and support a healthier body image. All of this works together to keep you sharper, happier and more focused throughout your days.

Positive Effects of Regular Exercise

• Reduces feelings of depression and anxiety
• Decreases stress
• Boosts self-esteem
• Improves sleep, which can keep you focused during the day

How Can I Challenge My Brain While Still Relaxing?

We get it—it can be hard to find the motivation to do much of anything after the kids are asleep. The good news is that you can engage with your brain while you are on the couch! Grab a word find, do a crossword puzzle, or pull out a deck of cards and learn a new game with your spouse. These types of activities are phenomenal for your brain connections and can actually help with your memory retention later in life.

Your brain is like a muscle, so you have to use it in order to keep it in good working condition. Learning something new or challenging your brain to think differently helps you stay sharp now and avoid dementia down the road.

Supporting Your Brain Through Your Lifestyle

• Avoid smoking and other forms of tobacco.
• Don’t abuse alcohol.
• Protect your head from injury by wearing a helmet.

We are here to help you feel better from your brain to your feet. Come see us at AFC Urgent Care Sevierville.