Yoga Research: Brain Structure & Function

Lesson Overview

In this lesson, we summarize research findings related to yoga’s impact on brain structure and function.

Objective

Be prepared to cite research related to yoga’s impact on brain structure and function.

Description

Cite the following studies: a 2012 study on improved reaction time, accuracy and memory; a 2014 study on cognitive function improvements in older population; and a 2019 study on cognitive function and memory improvements in young adults. Describe the following research on brain structure and activity: a 2019 review of 11 studies on brain structure, a 2007 study showing elevated GABA levels; 2015 research on meditation’s effect on the brain; 2018 research on brain structure; a 2017 study showing thicker prefrontal cortex of participants’ brains; 2018 research showing smaller volume of brain region tied to negative emotions, 2013 research showing how compassion meditation changed the brain, and more.

Cognitive Function (Memory, Reaction Time, etc.)

Improved reaction time, accuracy, memory (2012)  link

• 30 undergraduate women
• Yoga session: 20-minutes of postures, deep breathing and meditative pose at the end
• Aerobic exercise session: walked or jogged on a treadmill for 20 minutes to 60-70 percent maximum heart rate
• Immediately after doing yoga: significant improvement on cognitive tests evaluating reaction times, accuracy, and memory
• Direct after aerobic exercise: no significant improvements

Cognitive function improved in older population (2014)  link

• Sedentary older adults
• Hatha yoga three times per week for eight weeks
• Improved performance on cognitive tasks that are relevant to everyday life

Cognitive function & memory improved in young adults (2019) link and link

• 19 men, median age 22, low physical activity level
• Yoga session: 10 minutes, low intensity yoga sequence
• Rest session: same group tested before and after a 10-minute rest
• Used a cognitive function test and mood scale test
• “Multiple measurements of mood… improved in the yoga treatment session, including: reduced tension-anxiety, reduced depression-dejection, reduced anger-hostility, reduced fatigue, reduced confusion, and increased vigor. Cognitive function improved as determined by the Stroop test. Additionally, vigor was correlated with cognitive function; as vigor increased, cognitive function improved.”
• “Conclusion: Low intensity stretching during yoga practice improved mood and cognitive function of sedentary young adults.”