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Research on the Impact of Yoga – Brain Structure & Function


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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.

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