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- Title
Kundalini Yoga Intervention Increases Hippocampal Volume in Older Adults: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial.
- Authors
Ibrahim, Marim; Therriault, Joseph; Nair, Vasavan; Dikaios, Elena; Rosa-Neto, Pedro; Walpola, Ishan; Rej, Soham; Lifshitz, Michael
- Abstract
Background: Among a rapidly aging population, there is increased need for neuroprotective interventions promoting healthy neurological aging. Mind-body interventions, such as Kundalini yoga, are actively being explored as accessible means to encourage healthy aging. However, little remains known about the neurobiological effects of Kundalini yoga. Aims: This pilot randomized-controlled trial (RCT) examined the potential neuroprotective effects of Kundalini yoga in older adults. Methods: We conducted an RCT with 11 healthy meditation-naïve older adults. Participants were randomized to a Kundalini yoga or psychoeducation intervention. Structural magnetic resonance imaging data were obtained at baseline and 12-week follow-up. The primary outcome measure was gray matter volume of the bilateral hippocampi and bilateral posterior cingulate cortex. Results: We found significant right hippocampal volume increases specific to the Kundalini yoga group (P = 0.034, ηp2 = 0.408). Conclusions: These findings provide initial neurobiological support for the neuroprotective effects of Kundalini yoga.
- Subjects
OLDER people; YOGA; CINGULATE cortex; MAGNETIC resonance imaging; GRAY matter (Nerve tissue); HIPPOCAMPUS (Brain)
- Publication
International Journal of Yoga, 2022, Vol 15, Issue 2, p158
- ISSN
0973-6131
- Publication type
Article
- DOI
10.4103/ijoy.ijoy_25_22