Past studies have suggested that practicing yoga can help those suffering from insomnia rest easier and boost the immune system. Now new research shows that regularly participating in hatha yoga, which emphasizes physical postures and breath control, may improve older adults' cognitive function.
In a study (subscription required) involving more than 100 adults ages 55 to 79, researchers assigned roughly half of the individuals to attend hatha yoga classes three times a week for eight weeks while the others participated in sessions in which they engaged in stretching and toning exercises. The Huffington Post reports:
At the end of eight weeks, the group that did yoga three times a week performed better on cognitive tests than it had before the start of yoga classes.
The group that did stretching and toning displayed no significant change in cognitive performance over time. In addition, researchers say the differences seen between the groups were not the result of age, gender, social status or other similar factors.
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Edward McAuley, PhD, who co-led the study, noted that participants in the yoga group displayed significant improvements in working memory capacity. "They were also able to perform the task at hand quickly and accurately, without getting distracted," he said in a press release. "These mental functions are relevant to our everyday functioning, as we multitask and plan our day-to-day activities."
Previously: Stanford researchers use yoga to help underserved youth manage stress and gain focus, Third down and ommm: How an NFL team uses yoga and other tools to enhance players' well-being, Yoga classes may boost high-school students' mental well-being and Study shows yoga may improve mood, reduce anxiety
Photo by Neha Gothe
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