Practicing Yoga Can Help Prevent Alzheimer's Disease

Yoga may be able to give your body and brain the boost it needs. Learn how it can be a key tool in preventing Alzheimer's and cognitive decline.

By Carrie Solomon
Mar 27, 2024 3:00 PM
older couple doing yoga
(Credit: 4 PM production/Shutterstock)

Newsletter

Sign up for our email newsletter for the latest science news
 

More than 6 million Americans are living with Alzheimer's disease; a figure experts project to double by the year 2050. Alzheimer’s is the seventh leading cause of death and the number one cause of dementia in the U.S.

While lifestyle factors like eating brain-boosting foods and managing high blood pressure can help prevent it, many adults are still at high risk. However, recent research suggests another lifestyle habit — the ancient yet powerful practice of yoga — may be especially effective. 

It’s no secret that yoga offers many benefits for physical and mental health: weight loss, improved balance and flexibility, and even reduced depression symptoms, to name a few. 

But a new study from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)  suggests yoga can be a potent ally in preserving cognitive function — especially if it involves a variety of activities like meditation, breathwork, mudras (shapes or positions made with the fingers), and chanting, all found in Kundalini.

0 free articles left
Want More? Get unlimited access for as low as $1.99/month

Already a subscriber?

Register or Log In

0 free articlesSubscribe
Discover Magazine Logo
Want more?

Keep reading for as low as $1.99!

Subscribe

Already a subscriber?

Register or Log In

Stay Curious

Sign up for our weekly newsletter and unlock one more article for free.

 

View our Privacy Policy


Want more?
Keep reading for as low as $1.99!


Log In or Register

Already a subscriber?
Find my Subscription

More From Discover
Recommendations From Our Store
Stay Curious
Join
Our List

Sign up for our weekly science updates.

 
Subscribe
To The Magazine

Save up to 40% off the cover price when you subscribe to Discover magazine.

Copyright © 2024 Kalmbach Media Co.