How Exercise Enhances Ketamine Therapy
A while ago I interviewed author and fitness instructor, Sandra Steiner on my podcast MindBody Matters.
In recent years, ketamine therapy has gained attention for its rapid-acting benefits in treating depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders. But did you know that combining ketamine therapy with exercise could amplify its effects and support long-term mental health? In a recent discussion with Sandra Steiner, we explored how exercise impacts the brain and why low-impact movements might be ideal for ketamine post-treatments
Exercise and Ketamine: A Natural Synergy
Ketamine treatments are effective but often short-lived, requiring booster sessions to maintain their impact. Interestingly, exercise may extend the benefits of ketamine by supporting brain function and mood regulation. Low-impact exercises—like walking, stretching, yin yoga, or gentle garden yoga—are especially recommended shortly after treatment. These forms of exercise are gentle on the body while still providing meaningful neurological and mental health benefits.
Yin yoga, for example, is a slow-paced style where poses are held for three to five minutes. Physically, it allows for deep stretching of muscles and fascia. Mentally, it encourages mindfulness and focus, helping individuals cultivate a calm, centered state—ideal after a ketamine session.
How Exercise Supports Brain Health
One of the most remarkable ways exercise benefits mental health is through neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to learn, adapt, and grow new neural connections. Similar to the process of therapy, repeated practice of certain behaviors or thought patterns strengthens new pathways in the brain. Over time, this rewiring can support lasting changes in mood and behavior.
Exercise also boosts BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor), often described as Sandra put it, as“fertilizer for the brain.” Aerobic activities, in particular, increase BDNF levels in the hippocampus, a critical region for memory, learning, and emotional regulation. Higher BDNF levels are linked to better neuroplasticity and cognitive function.
Reducing Inflammation and Enhancing Neurotransmitters
Depression and bipolar disorder are often associated with chronic inflammation in the body, including the brain. Regular exercise has been shown to reduce this inflammation, supporting both physical and mental health. Additionally, aerobic exercise stimulates serotonin production, improving mood and regulating emotional responses. Exercise also supports dopamine release, further enhancing motivation, focus, and feelings of reward—effects that parallel some of ketamine’s therapeutic actions.
The Social Component of Exercise
Beyond the biological benefits, exercise often provides opportunities for social connection, whether through group classes, walking clubs, or shared yoga sessions. Social interaction has its own set of mental health benefits, reinforcing positive emotions, reducing feelings of isolation, and supporting overall well-being.
Key Takeaways
Low-impact exercise—such as walking, stretching, and yin yoga—can complement ketamine therapy and help maintain its benefits.
Neuroplasticity means the brain is always capable of growth; exercise enhances this adaptability.
BDNF and neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine are boosted through aerobic activity, improving mood and cognitive function.
Inflammation reduction through exercise supports mental health in conditions like depression and bipolar disorder.
Social interaction during exercise provides emotional and psychological support.
By integrating thoughtful, moderate exercise into a treatment plan, individuals may experience enhanced mental health outcomes alongside therapies like ketamine. Even gentle daily activity can have profound effects on brain function, mood, and overall well-being.
