By: Tauan Gomes
Procrastination is a phenomenon related to several factors ranging from stress and mental problems to tiredness and cultural influences. In the neuroscience of physical behavior, frequent physical activity appears as an effective mechanism against procrastination and its harmful consequences.
Chronic stress, one of the main catalysts for procrastination, can be significantly mitigated through regular physical activity. Studies show that physical exercise reduces levels of cortisol, the stress hormone, promoting a state of relaxation and well-being (SHEPHERD, 2001). Furthermore, regular exercise has been shown to be effective in reducing symptoms of mental disorders such as anxiety and depression, which often contribute to procrastination (MOTL et al., 2004).
Fatigue, both mental and physical, is another major factor in procrastination. Physical exercise, contrary to what one might think, improves energy and reduces the feeling of tiredness through the release of endorphins and improved cardiovascular efficiency (SAMERI et al., 2020). Likewise, syndromes related to a sedentary lifestyle, such as metabolic syndrome, can be prevented and treated with a regular routine of physical activity, resulting in a general improvement in quality of life and the ability to make decisions more quickly and confidently.
In a world increasingly dominated by technology and excessive use of social media, procrastination is exacerbated by constant distraction and a perceived lack of time. Technological culture promotes a vicious cycle of instant gratification that undermines the discipline necessary to practice physical exercise. However, an intentional educational approach can reverse this situation, encouraging healthy lifestyle habits from childhood (HALLAL et al., 2006).
Procrastination is also closely linked to maladaptive perfectionism, where the fear of failure leads to inaction. Practicing physical exercise can help build confidence and develop a growth mindset, where the focus is on continuous progress rather than absolute perfection (FLETT et al., 1995).
Therefore, physical education should be seen not just as a school subject, but as a crucial component in forming healthy habits and promoting mental and physical well-being. Innovations in this area may include personalized exercise programs that consider individual needs and time constraints, as well as the incorporation of technologies that encourage physical activity in a playful and interactive way (TUDOR-LOCKE et al., 2011).
The neuroscience of physical behavior offers an arsenal of convincing arguments for regular physical exercise, showing that it is not only beneficial for the body, but essential for mental health and combating procrastination. Integrating physical exercise into your daily routine can transform the way we deal with stress, mental disorders, fatigue, and the cultural influences of the digital age.
References :
- FLETT, GL, et al. Perfectionism in young children: Developmental patterns and peer context. In: HOLLAND, JC (Ed.), Handbook of psychological approaches with children and adolescents: Psychodynamic, behavioral, and cognitive-behavioral models. New York: Wiley, 1995.
- HALLAL, PC, et al. Adolescent physical activity and health: A systematic review. Sports Medicine, vol. 36, no. 12, p. 1019-1030, 2006.
- MOTL, RW, et al. Physical activity and depressive symptoms among adolescents: Evidence from a prospective study. American Journal of Preventive Medicine, vol. 27, no. 2, p. 203-211, 2004.
- SAMERI, M., et al. Exercise as a mediator of the relationship between physical activity and mental health in adolescents. Mental Health and Physical Activity, vol. 18, p. 100322, 2020.
- SHEPHERD, RJ Physical activity and mental health. Sports Medicine, vol. 31, no. 3, p. 177-193, 2001.
- TUDOR-LOCKE, C., et al. How many steps/day are enough? For adults. International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity, vol. 8, no. 1, p. 79, 2011.
