{"id":7969,"date":"2021-08-10T13:51:48","date_gmt":"2021-08-10T13:51:48","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/rinka.ie\/?p=7969"},"modified":"2021-08-10T13:51:48","modified_gmt":"2021-08-10T13:51:48","slug":"benefits-of-exercise-on-childrens-mental-health-and-wellbeing","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/rinka.ie\/kids-health\/benefits-of-exercise-on-childrens-mental-health-and-wellbeing\/","title":{"rendered":"Benefits of exercise on children’s mental health and wellbeing"},"content":{"rendered":"

Children\u2019s mental health and wellbeing has been in the spotlight In recent months. On top of normal childhood challenges children have had added struggles to deal with due to Covid-19 restrictions and lockdowns.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Experts say physical activity allows children<\/span> to have a better outlook on life by building confidence, managing anxiety and depression, and increasing self-esteem and cognitive skills. A study in Norway concluded that moderate to vigorous activity at ages 6 to 8 years is linked to fewer symptoms of anxiety or depression 2 years later.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The Benefits<\/h6>\n

Researchers are continually linking exercise to improving children\u2019s physical health but it also helps improve their brain function and emotional wellbeing. All this new research and terminology can be a little overwhelming for parents which is why we love how Dr Gregg Wells<\/a> has summarised the Top 3 Benefits of Physical Activity for us!\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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  1. Body – when we move our bodies and are physically active we are strengthening our muscles, bones, hearts and lungs<\/span><\/li>\n
  2. Brain – when we exercise, our minds get better – we produce something called BDNF which is a little protein that stimulates the growth of new neurons in our brain that \u2018sparks learning\u2019. Exercise also improves creativity and problem solving.\u00a0 <\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n
  3. Emotions and Moods – exercise reduces anxiety, releases endorphins, improves sleep and self confidence.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

    With today\u2019s challenges in mind it is fantastic to see the powerful effect exercise has on our children\u2019s mental health and wellbeing. In order for children to reap the benefits, parents need to feel confident and understand why their children need exercise in their life.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

    A few pointers from Team RINKA\u00a0 that we hope will help you achieve the Feel Good Factor for your family!\u00a0<\/span><\/h6>\n