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6 Ways Physical Activity Benefits Mental Health in College Students

The importance of maintaining good mental health cannot be stressed in the hectic world of college life, where academic pressures and social dynamics collide. Regular physical activity is an often overlooked element to reaching this balance. Aside from the physical benefits, exercise has  significant consequences for mental well-being, especially for the young and dynamic community of college students.

1. Stress Reduction
College life is full of deadlines, exams, and the constant juggling of responsibilities. Physical activity acts as a natural stress reliever by causing the release of endorphins, the pleasurable neurotransmitters responsible for a good mood.(Mayo,Clinic, 2022 Para.1) Whether it’s a brisk stroll, a heart-pounding marathon, or a peaceful yoga session, the act of engaging in physical activity offers a therapeutic retreat from the daily grind.

2. Cognitive Enhancement
“Exercise isn’t just about building muscles; it’s about building brainpower too. Studies consistently show that regular physical activity enhances cognitive function, memory retention, and overall academic performance” (Harvard Medical School, Exercise can boost your memory and thinking skills 2021 para.3). For college students navigating through complex courses and information overload, integrating exercise into their routine becomes a strategic investment in their intellectual abilities.

3. Social Connection
Part of the college experience is about developing relationships as much as it is about learning.  Physical activities, whether they be team sports, group workshops, or simply going to the gym, all live a natural outlet for social contact. The camaraderie developed during these activities develops a sense of belonging and emotional support, both of which are important factors in maintaining good  mental health in the face of academic and personal problems.

4. Anxiety Management
Anxiety can be an enormous challenge for college students, but physical activity emerges as an effective weapon in its treatment. From performing a dance routine or the practicing the meditative energies of Taichi, exercise helps reduce anxiety levels, encouraging a more centered and composed mindset (Mayo Clinic, 2022 Para.2,4).

5. Sleep Quality
Quality sleep is often an overlooked pillar of academic performance, and physical activity is critical to it. “Regular exercise helps college students achieve the needed 7-9 hours of restful sleep by  regulating sleep patterns. As a result, focus, memory consolidation, and overall mental resilience  improve.” (Okano et al., 2019 para.11).

6. Emotional Resilience
College life is an emotional rollercoaster, and physical activity gives students the emotional fortitude they need to manage its twists and turns. Regular exercise cultivates a more resilient mindset, allowing children to bounce back from failures and meet obstacles with a positive attitude.

In conclusion, the importance of physical activity and mental health for college students cannot be stressed in the fast-paced world of academics. Maintaining physical fitness is just one aspect of a holistic approach to well-being that benefits academic performance, emotional stability, and the general quality of the college experience. Therefore, letting students know that the transforming power of physical activity paves the way to success and that a healthy mind resides in an active body as they set out on their academic adventures.

References
1. “Exercise Can Boost Your Memory and Thinking Skills.” Harvard Health, 15 Feb. 2021,
www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/exercise-can-boost-your-memory-and-thinkingskills.

2. Clinic, M. (2022, August 3). Exercise and stress: Get moving to manage stress. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/exercise-and-stress/ . . .  read more

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Feature Story: Creating an Engaged Community at UCO

Matt Wade, Sr. Talent Communications and Engagement Specialist

We all crave connection and community, especially in the workplace. According to a recent study by Qualtrics (2022), workplace belonging is the number one driver of employee experience and organizational culture. Employees who feel like they belong are nearly 6 times more likely to be highly engaged than those who don’t. But what is engagement . . .  read more

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Shop Central At UCO

The goal of Shop Central is to encourage UCO students, alumni and employees to find new and unique local spots while supporting the Edmond and Oklahoma City metro communities. The best part? These businesses are offering you an exclusive discount or special offer. Just present your UCO ID to any of the participating vendors to receive your discount . . .  read more

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Get-to-Know a Broncho

Oksun Lee, professor of art

  1. What is your background?  

I was born and raised in South Korea. I attended a normal university in South Korea as an elementary education major with a minor in elementary art education and Korean painting. In my junior year, I had the chance to lead a community service-learning project, teaching art to low-income inner-city students in Incheon, South Korea. These art teaching . . .  read more