The Missouri Alzheimer’s Association raises awareness of what’s good for your body and mind

street. Lewis County, Missouri – June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month, and the Missouri Alzheimer’s Association is working to raise awareness that what’s good for your body is good for your brain.

On June 15, the organization partnered with Orange Theory Fitness to launch the “Sweat4yourbrain” initiative.

“I think we think of exercise in terms of our physical body and the way we look on the outside,” said Kelly Quinn, director of donor events at the Alzheimer’s Association.

During Alzheimer’s Disease and Brain Awareness Month, the Alzheimer’s Association is pushing people to sweat for the brain.

“We know that emerging research shows that by living a healthy lifestyle, you can really reduce the risk and symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease,” Quinn said.

The brain is the center of the body. It tells your body and organs when and how to work out. Eleven pooled studies show that regular exercise can significantly reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease by 45%.

“It stimulates your endorphins, and when you feel good, you can be your best,” Quinn said.

Gyms across Missouri dedicate their representatives Thursdays to raising this awareness. The Alzheimer’s Association launched #sweat4yourbrain at Orange Theory gym in Des Perris.

“Getting in the door is the hardest part,” said Billy Blake, technical director at De Peres. “Once you’re here, we’ve got you covered the rest of the way.”

The Alzheimer’s Association encourages people to spread the word through social media. Take a picture and use the hashtag, “#sweat4y your brain.”

“She makes all the difference in the world,” Blake revealed. “I feel like people come in there sometimes a little bit tired or exhausted. You see their external stressors coming in.”

“You stimulate your brain with social interaction, physical interaction, and also some competition,” Quinn said.

Locations across the state will be posted on social media during the initiative. The organization will conclude today with an educational session at St. Luke’s Hospital, a partner in this initiative.