No. I couldn't think of anything worse than staying in bed all day. I am going through a very low phase right now, the worst in a while and completely burnt out but somehow my mind and body want to be busy. I find I feel better if I am moving, maybe it's the effect of moving on the body and mind, for me at least. Sitting still or staying in bed trying to sleep while I think I need at times, my mind refuses.
I often sleep less well and I can't relax and downshift my nervous system.
Light exercise has several important effects on the brain.
1. Dopamine and reward
Exercise stimulates dopamine release in certain pathways (like the mesolimbic system).
This makes you feel motivated, alert, and rewarded, which is part of why even a short walk or easy cycling can feel good.
Dopamine also helps with focus, learning, and working memory, so it can help your mind feel sharper.
2. Other neurotransmitters
Serotonin: light exercise improves mood and stabilises emotional states.
Norepinephrine: boosts attention and energy levels.
Endorphins: mild analgesic effect, can produce a calm “lifted” feeling.
GABA (indirectly): exercise increases inhibitory controlled in the brain, helping reduce anxiety and stress responses over time.
So the “edge‑off” calmness you sometimes get isn’t just dopamine — it’s a combination of these systems being activated and balanced.
3. Brain function and structure
Even light, consistent movement:
improves blood flow and oxygen delivery to the brain
stimulates neuroplasticity, helping neurons form new connections
reduces inflammation and stress‑related cortisol levels
enhances executive function (planning, regulating impulses, working memory)
4. Stress regulation
Light exercise gently activates the sympathetic nervous system (alertness) but also triggers parasympathetic rebound (calm afterward).
Over time, this helps regulate your stress response, which is especially useful if your nervous system is easily overwhelmed or prone to dysregulation.
5. Practical takeaway
Even modest amounts — 10–20 minutes of walking, stretching, gentle cycling — can:
improve mood
reduce mental fatigue
provide a mild dopamine “baseline” boost
help your brain recover from stress without exhaustion
