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12 October 2020
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Story Arina Engelbrecht
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Photo Supplied
Arina Engelbrecht from Organisational Development and Employee Well-being believes physical activity has a number of benefits for one’s health, including stress relief.
Being physically active plays a big role in preventing the development of mental-health problems and in improving the quality of life of people experiencing mental-health problems.
Treatment for depression
Physical activity can be an alternative treatment for depression. It can be used as a stand-alone treatment or in combination with medication and/or psychological therapy. It promotes all kinds of changes in the brain, including neural growth, reduced inflammation, and new activity patterns are formed that promote feelings of calm and well-being. It releases endorphins – powerful chemicals in the brain that energise your spirit and make you feel good.
Physical activity can be very effective in relieving stress. Research in adults has found that physically active individuals tend to have lower stress levels compared to individuals who are less active. It also leads to improved sleep. When a person sleeps better and feels more rested, overall quality of life improves. They cope better with daily life stressors.
Reduce Alzheimer's risk
Regular physical activity can reduce your risk of developing Alzheimer's disease by up to 50%. It can also slow down further deterioration in those who have already started to develop cognitive problems. It stimulates the brain’s ability to maintain old connections as well as to make new ones.
A study asked people to rate their mood immediately after periods of physical activity (e.g. going for a walk/run, cycling, doing housework) and periods of inactivity (e.g. reading a book or watching television). Researchers found that participants felt more content, more awake, and calmer after being physically active compared to after periods of inactivity.
In conclusion, people who are physically active feel a sense of well-being, feel more energetic throughout the day, sleep better at night, have sharper memories, and feel more relaxed and positive about themselves and their lives.
“Being physically active not only changes your body, it changes your mind,
attitude, and your mood.” – Arina Engelbrecht
New first-year students welcomed at the UFS
2009-01-09
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In a light mood at the welcoming ceremony were Mr Eric Bost (USA Ambassador to South Africa) and Prof. Teuns Verschoor (Acting Rector of the UFS).
Photo: Hannes Pieterse |
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New first-year students welcomed at the UFS
The Acting Rector and Vice Chancellor of the University of the Free State (UFS), Prof. Teuns Verschoor, has welcomed the new first-year students during a ceremony on the Main Campus in Bloemfontein today.
“This new experience is an opportunity to not only make your own decisions but to develop and grow as a person. Make your mark, don’t leave a stain,” he said.
Mr Eric Bost, Ambassador of the United States of America (USA) to South Africa, also addressed the students and their parents.
“This is an opportunity to acquire knowledge and to make a positive difference in your lives and the lives of others,” he said.
He also urged students not to judge people on their ignorance of a view but to asses others based on their character and abilities.
Media Release
Issued by: Mangaliso Radebe
Assistant Director: Media Liaison
Tel: 051 401 2828
Cell: 078 460 3320
E-mail: radebemt.stg@ufs.ac.za
9 January 2009
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