29/11/2025
Exercise helps you “forget” trauma by promoting neurogenesis (the birth of new brain cells) and rewiring neural circuits, particularly in the hippocampus, which is involved in memory. This process, boosted by factors like brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), helps disrupt the strong neural connections associated with traumatic memories and can reduce PTSD.
To elaborate:
📑INCREASES NEUROGENESIS: Regular exercise stimulates the growth of new neurons in the hippocampus, a key area for memory. When these new neurons integrate into existing circuits, they can disrupt old, traumatic memory pathways.
📑PROMOTES BRAIN PLASTICITY: Exercise triggers the release of BDNF, a protein that helps existing neurons grow and form new connections, while also supporting the birth of new ones. This brain plasticity is crucial for the ability to learn, forget, and adapt.
📑REDUCES STRESS RESPONSE: The new neural growth and connections forged through exercise can effectively “rewire” the brain, weakening the specific neural circuits that hold traumatic memories.
📑BOOSTS MOOD AND SElF-ESTEEM: Physical activity can improve mood and confidence, which are often diminished in people with trauma. This can indirectly help with the emotional components of traumatic memories.
IT IS IMPORTANT TO UNDERSTAND that this is not a complete erasure of memories but a weakening and disruption of the memory’s emotional and associative power.
Studies have found that a combination of different types of exercise, such as aerobic and strength training, may provide the most benefits for overall brain health and emotional resilience.
No PMID available yet. SOURCE: https://scitechdaily.com/new-research-reveals-that-exercise-can-rewire-brains-and-erase-traumatic-memories/
