Abstract
D.Litt. et Phil.
An escalation in the mortality rate in Western society directly attributable to destructive lifestyles, has generated intensive research into the causal link between health and lifestyle. Early research highlighted a positive correlation between participation in physical activity and enhanced physical health. The complexity of causal interactions between physical activity and general well-being has given rise to a more focused examination of various elements of health and the activities which support it. The scope of research has
extended to include physical activity and its effect on mental health, as well as physical activity and its ability to create a positive state of mind. Results have been sufficiently impressive that medical practitioners and psychologists now commonly use programs of physical activity in the treatment of stress, depression and anxiety. A positive correlation between physical activity and improved state of mind has been primarily attributed to
enhanced physical fitness and better biological functioning of the body as a result of physical activity. Researchers refer to the role that physical activity plays in stimulating the secretion of norepinephrine in the central nervous system. Higher levels of norepinephrine in the body appear to lead to an improved state of mind.