And it’s been known for a long time that aerobic exercise has benefits for the brain (
, This research examines not only complex movements such as bicycling or walking in a straight line, but also multi-planar movements such as yoga.
Self-centered instructional videos guided participants through Surya Namaskar from the comfort of their homes. Gradually, participants were encouraged to become more self-sufficient by completing exercises independently.
The researchers wanted to know whether learning new series of yoga poses could improve working memory, in the same way that learning a new dance has benefits for the brain.
Moving through several active postures, as opposed to static holds, should theoretically improve attentional abilities or inhibition control. Going through the flow could potentially improve spatial memory (2). reliable source
Yoga Effects on Brain Health: A Systematic Review of the Current Literature
go to source
,
The study also aimed to investigate individuals’ adherence to the virtual exercise program. While the study was initially designed for remote execution, it coincidentally coincided with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic providing additional insights.
The reduction in anxiety and improvement in short-term working memory suggest that it is possible to practice moderate-intensity yoga at home and still reap the benefits of reducing stress and anxiety without compromising on safety (3). reliable source
Feasibility and effects of a remote moderate-intensity yoga intervention on stress and executive functioning in working adults: a randomized controlled trial
go to source).
Researchers will continue to test mind-body interventions and promote exercise adherence by developing more techniques to make activities more cognitively challenging than standard aerobic exercise, such as yoga, kickboxing, and other movements.
Reference,
- Effects of yoga on stress, anxiety, depression and spinal mobility in computer users with low back pain. (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36329769/)
- Yoga Effects on Brain Health: A Systematic Review of the Current Literature (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6971819/)
- Feasibility and effects of a remote moderate-intensity yoga intervention on stress and executive functioning in working adults: a randomized controlled trial (https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10865-022-00385-4#citeas)
Source: Eurekalert
