Need to improve your memory? Try yoga

Doing yoga once or twice a week can boost brain performance. People who practice yoga know it can help keep their bodies in better shape and research suggests that it also improves parts of the brain that control memory, attention and mood.

During the exercise, your brain releases all sorts of chemicals that not only  help you relax but also lower your stress and anxiety levels including oxytocin and serotonin. They function differently but the aim is to help you calm down and feel better.

Brain structure changes after meditation resulting in improved awareness and self-related thinking. The volume of the areas of the brain that govern these functions has been shown to improve and increase after exercise and that’s why everyone should tap into this exercise regimen.

Yoga benefits extend beyond older adults’ brain function. It’s proven to also have a positive effect on overall health such as:

Improves flexibilityBuilds muscle strengthPrevents cartilage and joint breakdownProtects the spineIncreases blood flow, raises the heart rate and reduces blood pressureImproves mood and increases energyBoosts immune system functionality

Getting started

Taking the first step might seem daunting to someone who has never practiced yoga before. However, a fundamental guiding principle is that yoga poses should be comfortable and steady. Do what feels right and be patient with yourself. The important thing to do is to simply start your practice and then make it a regular part of your daily routine.

You can find many resources online from beginner to advanced to help you with this exercise regimen.

Feature photo: unsplash