You almost certainly know the many benefits of physical exercise for the body.

But you may not realize that moving your body is one of the best things you can do for your brain as well.

Exercise stimulates the growth of new brain cells and helps virtually all mental health conditions.

You don't have to exercise strenuously to experience significant brain benefits.

And if you can't exercise outdoors, even gazing out a window or looking at a picture of nature or a house plant while you move will do!

One last simple but powerful tip.

Too much sitting will make you mentally sluggish, yet most of us spend 12 hours or more per day on our bottoms.

As former NASA Director of Life Sciences, Dr. Joan Vernikos was in charge of keeping astronauts fit in space.

She discovered a ridiculously easy way to counteract the effects of too much sitting.

The answer was not more exercise, it was simply standing up frequently throughout the day.

Ten minutes of walking, or gentle exercise like yoga, tai chi, or qi gong can enhance your mood, memory, and concentration.
Exercise is also one of the best stress busters around.

If you can, get that 10 minutes of exercise outside.

Exercising outdoors -- compared to indoors -- is more beneficial for your mental performance, memory, mood, energy, and attention span.