Yoga for the brain: it may sharpen your mind, protect against cognitive decline

Yoga is well-known for its physical benefits, but recent research highlights its positive impact on mental health, particularly cognitive function. Studies suggest that yoga may improve attention, memory, and overall cognitive function, especially in older adults at risk for cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s disease. By combining breathing exercises, relaxation techniques, meditation, and physical postures, yoga offers a holistic approach that benefits both mind and body.

A recent study found that older adults who practiced yoga showed noticeable improvements in cognitive function compared to those who didn’t. These benefits likely come from yoga’s ability to reduce stress and inflammation, both of which are connected to cognitive decline. By helping the body manage stress, yoga may protect against the mental decline often seen with aging.

While more research is needed, these findings suggest that adding yoga to your routine could be an easy and effective way to support cognitive health. As yoga becomes more popular, it offers a promising option for those looking to keep their minds sharp and maintain overall well-being as they age.

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By Richard Sima / Brain Matters Columnist

Education: Johns Hopkins University, PhD in Neuroscience; Harvard University, BA in Neurobiology

Richard Sima is a neuroscientist turned science journalist who writes the Brain Matters column for The Washington Post's Well+Being desk. After more than a decade of research, Sima transitioned from academia to journalism. His work covering the life, health and environmental sciences has appeared in outlets such as the New York Times, National Geographic, Scientific American, Discover Magazine, New Scientist and Eos. Prior to joining The Post in 2022, Richard worked as a fact-checker for Vox podcasts, including for the award-winning science podcast “Unexplainable.” He was also a researcher

(Source: washingtonpost.com; August 15, 2024; https://tinyurl.com/bdfs58xn)
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