In addition, it helps our body to fight against oxidative stress and the free radicals, reduces stress levels and improves our immune system. Together, it improves mood.
What sets swimming in motion
First of all, the physical benefits of swimming are undeniable. It is a very complete exercise that activates the main muscle groups of the body. In addition to stimulating the cardiovascular system, the work done is much greater than in other activities, thanks to the resistance of the water. The body, being submerged, receives less physical impact, and it is easier to move.
As a good aerobic exercise – that which requires an effort of the heart and lungs to provide oxygen to the muscles – swimming produces the release of endorphins, and the consequent improvement in mood. These substances are the natural drug of the brain, since they reduce the perception of pain, they give us pleasure and an immense sensation of well-being and happiness.
Endorphins as a value
This is why swimming is so addictive: endorphins secreted bind to the opioid receptors in the brain, responsible for functions such as sedation, pain reduction or euphoria.
Among other things, they have been shown to be effective in treating depression. Some studies have even shown that they are much more effective than some antidepressant drugs.
In this sense, swimming as a therapy improves mood and reduces the symptoms of those who suffer from this disorder. This would allow medication to be reduced or even eliminated in some patients.
Part of the antidepressant effect could be due to the formation of new neurons in the hippocampus, something that occurs after swimming.
The hippocampus It is also the area of the brain responsible for memory and learning.