You probably know that yoga is good for your mood and body. Now, research says it’s also good for your brain health, protecting against cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s disease.
Researchers say that the four components of yoga – breathing, physical relaxation, postures, and meditation – lower stress and inflammation linked to poor brain health. It also can improve the brain’s ability to use limited cognitive resources.
And brain scans have shown greater gray matter in the hippocampus of people who practiced yoga. That’s the brain region involved in memory.
About 17 percent of Americans participate in yoga, according to The Washington Post. It’s a good complement to aerobics and strength training; many love it on their own, especially if they’re unable to perform other movements.
Previous research showed yoga to improve attention, processing speed, executive function and memory. The new study, published this year in the journal Nature, says it can also help older people at risk of cognitive decline and dementia.
In it, 79 women at least 50 years old and reporting cognitive decline were divided into two groups. One practiced yoga daily for 12 weeks and reported significantly less subjective cognitive impairment compared to the others, who had received training to improve their memories.
More research is needed to solidify the results. But it gibes with what is already known about yoga and brain health – and the growing research supporting aerobic and strength training to improve cognition and lower risk of dementia, as well.
The mind-body connection is real – and crucial to optimal aging.
Holly Kouvo is a personal trainer, functional aging specialist, senior fitness specialist, brain health trainer, writer, and speaker.