Gothe, N. P., Hayes, J. M., Temali, C., & Damoiseaux, J. S. (2018). Differences in brain structure and function among yoga practitioners and controls. Frontiers in integrative neuroscience, 12, 26.

Pepperdine University

Mindful yoga focuses on mind-body awareness. When doing it, the main goal is to cultivate mindfulness. It is used in the mindfulness-based stress reduction program, which helps people that have depression, anxiety, stress, and pain.

Mindful Yoga

- Tadasana (mountain pose)
- Vrikshasana (tree pose)
- Anjaneyasana (low lunge)
- Supta Baddha Konasana (Reclining Bound Angle Pose)

Mindful Yoga Poses

Reference for Differences in Brain Structure and Function Among Yoga Practitioners and Controls

Yoga is a mind-body based physical activity that has demonstrated a
variety of physiological, psychological and cognitive health benefits. The current study aimed to determine the differences in gray matter volume
of the hippocampus, thalamus and other areas involved in brain activation during the Sternberg working memory task.

Gray matter volume differences were observed in the left hippocampus, showing greater volume in experienced yoga practitioners compared to non-practitioners. Reaction time and accuracy on the task did not differ between the groups.

All in all, results suggested an association between regular long-term yoga practice and differential structure and function of specific brain regions involved in executive function, specifically working memory, which has previously shown to improve with yoga practice.

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