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Neuron Growth and Yoga

Yoga Inspired Practices and Growth of Neurons

Section titled “Yoga Inspired Practices and Growth of Neurons”

Source: Can yoga-inspired practices grow new neurons? B.C. yogi weighs in

  • Online course, “Yoga for Neurogenesis: Practices to Build Your Brain”, taught by Mandy Lawson
  • Neurogenesis - creation of new neurons in brain
    • Needed for cognitive functions like learning, memory, brain health
    • Neurons are born in the hippocampus part of brain. Stress can hinder neurogenesis.
    • Boosted through exercise and stimulating environments, reduces stress

Patanjali defined an eight-limbed yoga in Yoga Sutras 2.29 - quotations from article with numbered pillars:

(1) Yamas, encompasses moral and ethical considerations that dictate how you treat and engage with others. Key values in this category include non-violence, truthfulness, non-stealing, non-greediness, and the right use of your energy.

(2) Niyamas refers to internal duties and principles such as cleanliness, contentment, discipline, self-reflection, and surrender.

(3) Asanas, is the most widely practiced, focusing on postures and yoga exercises promoting physical health.

(4) Pranayama involves various breathing techniques and breath control to enhance the flow of vital energy.

(5) Pratyahara is the next pillar, which entails withdrawing the mind and senses from external stimuli to foster inner concentration.

(6) Dharana involves the practice of complete focused concentration of the mind on a single point

(7) Dhyana pertains to meditation, encouraging a state of calm and awareness.

(8) Samadhi represents bliss, liberation, or enlightenment, the ultimate goal of the yoga journey.

Approach to support neurogenesis - “LMNNOP” Model

Section titled “Approach to support neurogenesis - “LMNNOP” Model”

  • Using yoga-inspired habits from 8 pillars and putting them in daily routines

  • Achieve through practice

  • L - Love - can be romantic, loving interactions with family, friends, strangers, anyone

    • Improve connection with people, intimacy, share activity and kindness

  • M - Movement - Slow hippocampus volume loss due to getting older

    • Research indicates moderate intensity exercise at least 3 times a week for 40 minutes slows loss hippocampal brain tissue and can increase its volume

  • N - Nature - Hypothesis: neurogenesis, exercise and natural landscapes are linked. They can contribute to physical and mental health

  • N - Novelty - environments rich in physical, social, and cognitive simulations

    • Creative engagement like new hobbies, games.

  • O - Omega-3 - take care of your body and mind though food

    • Fatty acids, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and role in brain development and health

  • P - Pause - Many activities can stress nervous system

    • Cleaning one’s thoughts, body, and environments
    • Meditations and mindfulness practice

See Also

Section titled “See Also”