RESOURCE
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February 11, 2015

Cognitive Behavior Evaluation Based on Physiological Parameters among Young Healthy Subjects with Yoga as Intervention

Research
Computational and Mathematical Methods in Medicine
SUMMARY

This study evaluated the cognitive and physiological impacts of yoga in 30 young healthy adults over five months. Participants practiced yoga for 90 minutes daily, six days a week, including postures, breathing techniques, and meditation. Results showed significant improvements in cognitive functions such as attention, memory, and executive function, linked to changes in brain activity (EEG band power) and heart rate variability (HRV). The findings suggest yoga enhances autonomic nervous system balance, boosting parasympathetic activity while reducing sympathetic stress responses, supporting mental alertness and relaxation. This highlights yoga's potential for improving cognitive performance and stress regulation.

RECOMMENDATION

Adopt a regular yoga routine, combining postures, breathing exercises, and meditation for at least 90 minutes daily. This practice can improve cognitive functions like attention and memory and enhance relaxation by balancing stress-related nervous system activity. While the study shows clear benefits, it had a small sample size. Further research is needed to confirm these effects across diverse populations and age groups. Tailor practices to individual fitness and health levels for best outcomes.

TAGS
yoga; cognitive performance; heart rate variability; autonomic nervous system; attention; memory; executive function; EEG band power; parasympathetic activity; stress-management
DEEP DIVE