Motivation: A New Explanation for Why Exercise Reduces Depression

Motivation is the key ignitor for healing.
Motivation: A New Explanation for Why Exercise Reduces Depression
baranq/Shutterstock
|Updated:
0:00

Researchers have a new explanation for why exercise reduces depression. A study published in July suggests that exercises may exert anti-depressive effects by reducing brain inflammation and cultivating motivation.

Study lead author Emily Hird, a research fellow at University College London with a doctorate in cognitive neuroscience, said the positive effect of aerobic exercise has been demonstrated through randomized trials. Still, the specific biological and psychological processes are not well understood.

Huey Freeman
Huey Freeman
Author
A newspaper reporter, editor, and author, Huey Freeman recently wrote “Who Shot Nick Ivie?” a true crime book on the murder of a border patrol agent. He lives in Central Illinois with his wife Kate.
Related Topics