What Exercise Does To Your Brain – HINT: It’s Like Cannabis

I started taking 60-minute high-intensity interval training ("HIIT") classes three times a week about a month ago, and I feel SO good. My mood is better than it's been in years, and I come out of each class feeling like I've gotten high, lol. Of course, the catch is that I had to work with my psychiatrist and my therapist for quite a long time before my depression had lifted enough for me to have the energy to start exercising. When you don't even have the energy or motivation to brush your teeth or get out of bed, it's nearly impossible to get yourself to the gym. However, if you can get to that point, it is so worth it. My depression and anxiety are practically non-existent now, my chronic insomnia is gone, and my self-confidence has shot up to levels it's not been at in years. Thanks for another great video, Dr. Marks. It was interesting to hear about the science behind this.

Just realized something. You aren’t selling anything. No ads, no sponsor messages, etc. It’s very refreshing. Thank you.

Walking for 30mins 5x a week along a forested route in my community has significantly improved my health; mentally and physically. My negative internal dialogue no longer resides in my daily thoughts, giving room to positive and uplifting messages that have spread throughout my home, family and career. Thank you, Dr Tracey🙏

Exercise is a “drug” so little people utilize

I’ve decided to do 10-15 mins of a fast pace walk or jog and my body is becoming obsessed. Went through a really bad depression 2019 and found myself needing to walk every morning just to feel good. Now I’m up to working out and I really want to level up. But I’m taking it one step at a time. I’m so proud I’ve been consistent doing my jogs even if it’s only 10-15 min a day. It really helps.

I have ADHD. Inattentive type. When I let myself go, stop exercising, I become drained easily and I feel like sleeping all the time. I procrastinate. I also get a bit depressed. I also start to become a recluse. But when I go to gym and when I run also, I become more energetic, my memory improves, I remember facts better, my mood lifts, and I like hanging out with people. Two different people. Usually it takes me about 1.5 month until I notice big improvement, both in strength and endurance. You can feel improvement after 3 weeks, but your full strength and power are there after about 6 weeks. You become happier. I also knew it was never about endorphine. It cannot pass blood/brain barrier. Her advice is very good and she is well informed (Dr. Marks that is).

I have been a daily exerciser since I was about 15. I didn't realize for years and years that I was kind of self-treating my (undiagnosed) ADHD. I can't go without exercise, it's like opening a steam valve for me every day. Excellent, informative video.

I started exercising about 7 years ago, when I was in my late 20s. Now, It's such a pillar of my life that I get restless and uncomfortable if I don't get some kind of workout in for the week. I don't drink, take caffiene, pre-workout, smoke, or do drugs ( Though I used to ). Not only does exercise FEEL as good as doing those things I used to do, it also improves my mood, gives me a good looking body, builds strength, and builds character. It's the key to life, sitting plain as day in front of everyone, yet nobody want's to take it.

I just started jogging and it helps a lot with my depression. Yes it’s hard in the moment, but if you keep pushing yourself, you’ll feel so much better in the end . ❤️

The timing of this video is amazing. I just re-joined the gym yesterday after a two year hiatus (Pandemic, then brain surgery, recovery, depression). I slept better than I have in months last night and can't wait to go back for a 30 min session today! I'm starting small. Thank you so much for your video Dr. Marks. Wishing you a great holiday!

I've been forcing myself to get on my treadmill for at least 20 minutes every other day and I do feel a lot better

I've fallen into a very severe depression this month but have been going to the gym nearly every day in hopes of it leaving quickly. I feel really good and accomplished from it but still struggle deeply every day. I'm not giving up though. Thank you so much for the education.

This video came at a perfect time. I've been going to the gym for a ut a week and today I was feeling a bit down and I was thinking about skipping it. But after watching the video I feel motivated to go there and workout. Thanks Dr. Tracey!!!! ❤️

I really wish you would consider doing a podcast either by yourself or with other mental health professionals as guests so those who are suffering from mental illness can download the shows and listen to them while their exercising, driving, or taking a walk/run. I believe it would be very beneficial. Thank you.

Dr. Tracy . All I’ve got to say is : Thank you 🙏

This explanation is excellent. I’ve had brutal anxiety lately. Very tight jaws and chest pain. If you’re feeling anxiety do what I’ve done the past 2 weeks. I’ve watched 1 half of Rugby while riding a stationary bike twice a day. I feel soooooooo much better. I promise you will feel better. It sucks in the beginning because I’m fat yet I promise a few days in and you’ll sleep and feel better. What’s she’s saying is true. Just do it.

Good morning Doc. I have general anxiety disorder. I workout everyday snd I have been noticing it lowers my anxiety down really good. I am so addicted to working out. I love it and it makes me feel really good.

The way you educate and drop actual facts is so much appreciated! Everyone should know about this channel!💜

Absolutely correct. Exercise helps for all the healthier life.

New, amazed fan here. Your contribution to YouTube (and honestly the internet) regarding mental health is significant. Thank you for your generosity and hard work. Cheers!