Interestingly, the mindfulness scores improved, but was not correlated with changes in cognition as determined by statistical analyses (see below for relevance). ( See Table 2.) There was a statistically significant improvement in four of five variables, although in all cases the absolute improvement in survey score was minimal, of marginal clinical significance. Over the course of the study period, some improvements in the primary outcomes were seen. The researchers chose to use a hatha-type yoga, which included poses (asanas), breathing (pranayama), and a 10-minute guided meditation while supine. They were then given the option of six weekly one-hour yoga classes (n = 41) or six twice weekly one-hour yoga classes (n = 2).
The participants completed all of the surveys and answered basic demographic questions prior to the start of the yoga classes. The mean age was 25 years, and half had no prior yoga experience. A total of 43 people enrolled in the study. The researchers recruited adults through Texas State University who did not have any physical condition that would prohibit their involvement in a yoga class. WAIS Digit Span Backward WAIS Letter-Number Sequencing WAIS Digit Span Sequencing (used but not well corroborated in the literature yet) Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS) Digit Span Forward Temporary storage, as well as using the information associated with various tasks Manipulation Sub-Domain of Working Memory Table 1: Maintenance and Manipulation Aspects of Working Memory In addition, they used the WAIS Letter-number Sequencing (listening to and remembering numbers and letters in numerical and alphabetical order, respectively), and 15-item (each with a six-item Likert scale) self-report mindfulness scale to assess self-awareness and well-being. Specifically, the researchers used three aspects of the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS), including the WAIS Digit Span Forward (listening to and then remembering numbers in the same order, score 0-14), WAIS Digit Span Backward (listening to and remembering numbers in a reverse order, score 0-14), and WAIS Digit Span Sequencing (listening to and remembering numbers in an ascending order), which is less supported by results in the medical literature. The characteristics of these two parts, and the survey instruments used for testing them, are described in Table 1.
The authors hypothesized that the mindfulness component of yoga, including meditative techniques and body awareness, might benefit what they call “working memory.” As detailed by the authors, working memory is a short-term collection and processing of information that has both a maintenance component and a manipulation component. Most research has focused on the use of yoga for physical ailments, such as back pain, but Brunner et al stepped into a unique niche of looking at the cognitive effects of a yoga practice. Lagging a bit is the application of this modality as a proven therapeutic tool in clinical practice. These days, it seems like in most communities there are a plethora of yoga studios catering to many demographics and helping people to connect their minds, bodies, and breath to promote relaxation and well-being, if not address specific health concerns. A yoga program for cognitive enhancement. SYNOPSIS: The authors of this small pilot study showed that a six-week yoga class led to benefits in working memory and mindfulness. Four of five memory tests showed a statistically significant, but possible clinically negligible, improvement mindfulness scores also improved.Five surveys explored working memory, and one 15-item questionnaire detailed mindfulness. Forty-three people attended a six-week yoga class.
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