Kundalini Yoga Intervention Increases Hippocampal Volume in Older Adults: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial.
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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, ηp 2 = 0.408).Conclusions
These findings provide initial neurobiological support for the neuroprotective effects of Kundalini yoga.
SUBMITTER: Ibrahim M
PROVIDER: S-EPMC9623893 | biostudies-literature | 2022 May-Aug
REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature
Publications
Kundalini Yoga Intervention Increases Hippocampal Volume in Older Adults: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial.
Ibrahim Marim M Therriault Joseph J Nair Vasavan P VP Dikaios Elena E Rosa-Neto Pedro P Walpola Ishan C IC Rej Soham S Lifshitz Michael M
International journal of yoga 20220501 2
<h4>Background</h4>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.<h4>Aims</h4>This pilot randomized-controlled trial (RCT) examined the potential neuroprotective effects of Kundalini yoga in older adults.<h4>M ...[more]
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