Yoga Could Benefit Brain Health

Whether it's a brisk walk or a quick jog, exercise just makes us feel better. And we know it's good for our mental health, too. Those benefits have been well-documented in research studies for decades.  But, when it comes to Yoga, much less is known, despite its growing popularity.

A new research analysis from the University of Illinois suggests yoga may have benefits for people beyond increasing flexibility and strength. The research suggests that the practice could actually improve brain health in ways similar to aerobic exercise. 

Neha Gothe is director of the Exercise Psychology Lab at the Department of Kinesiology and Community at the University of Illinois, and she co-led the research analysis on yoga and its effect on the brain. Ashley Krusulovich, a certified Yoga instructor trained in Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction and founder of the nonprofit Yoga for a Mindful Midwest, which helps bring yoga to schools and underserved communities, also joined us.