The practice of physical exercises offers many benefits for student's mental health and school performance. According to the Ministry of Health, the habit of doing physical activity increases the release of neurotransmitters linked to well-being, Serotonin and Endorphin, which help students deal better with stress and school pressure. Nowadays, due to the excessive exposure to screens, the increase in the consumption of passive entertainment, unhealthy eating, and lifestyle, many young people develop a sedentary life and consequently make room for feelings of stress, anxiety, and fatigue resulting from their bad habits.


Impacts of a sedentary lifestyle on the school routine.

  Sedentary lifestyle involves performing low-energy activities while awake, such as spending long periods sitting, lying down, or reclining. According to the World Health Organization, 81% of teenagers between 11 and 17 years old do not practice physical activity regularly, which reflects the increase of sedentary behavior among young people. Among some of the impacts that the lack of physical activity can cause in the school routine are cognitive difficulty, harm to mental health, and poor sleep quality, which can affect the energy and motivation necessary for learning.


Benefits of a physically active life in the school routine.


 The practice of physical activity stimulates the release of several hormones. They, together with neurotransmitters, are responsible for regulating sleep, digestion, and blood pressure, as well as promoting the feeling of well-being, happiness, and relaxation. In addition, a study by the Ministry of Health says that it is through movement that children develop not only their motor skills, coordination, and balance, but also their social side and cognitive ability, which happens through the neural connections that the practice of physical activity can promote. These factors emphasize the importance of implementing physical activity in daily life to improve performance in the school routine.


How to start having a physically active life?

  Changing your routine and stepping out of your comfort zone to begin a physically active life may seem challenging. The secret is to start slowly, respect your own limits, and do an activity that is enjoyable. There are many options that are beneficial for health and capable of providing positive results. Here are some simple examples to do in your daily life:


• Walking One of the most accessible and practical activities, which can be done in many places, is walking. It works like a meditation, since during the exercise the focus remains on it, keeping away negative thoughts.


• Running Running requires a bit more physical effort, working on the bone and muscle structure of the individual, in addition to improving mood and preventing cardiovascular diseases.


• Dancing Dancing is a therapeutic activity that increases flexibility, works motor coordination, and increases self-esteem. It is also a great option to brighten up your day with the music.


• Yoga The practice of Yoga works with breathing and several postures, which help improve flexibility, strengthen muscles, and relieve anxiety.


Sources:  


1. - Qual é a relação entre a atividade física e o desempenho escolar? — Ministério da Saúde 

2. - Como a atividade física pode te ajudar a aliviar os sintomas da ansiedade — Ministério da Saúde 3 - Actividade física - OMS

    4. - 5 hormônios liberados na atividade física e seus efeitos surpreendentes 


Reporter: Ítalo L. Cardoso

Redigido por: Lídia Lacerda