Om Yoga Magazine
Yoga and Neurogenesis
Yoga and neurogenesis
The positive effect yoga can have on neurogenesis. By Evi Dimitriadou
We are never too old to learn a new skill, never too old to learn yoga, to learn a new way to move, to think or even to start meditation.
The ‘Five Steps to Wellbeing’ promulgated by the World Health Organization and the U.K. National Health Services are also the five factors by which neurogenesis can be increased. These are:
- An enriched environment promoting learning new things
- Physical activity
- Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant diet
- Ways of managing stress
- Connecting with people
Neurogenesis is defined as the formation of new brain cells called neurons.
It is important since it takes place in a part of the brain – the hippocampus – that plays a crucial role in the formation of memory, as well as mood, and in emotional regulation. It is also related to other brain parts such as the amygdala and prefrontal cortex.
It is also very important since new neurons are produced as long as we…
