PROVIDENCE – Supported by a grant from the Alzheimer’s Association, Rhode Island Hospital researchers are studying whether regular practice of yoga can help a brain in slow decline. The hospital is recruiting people with mild cognitive disorder to study whether yoga can improve their condition. Yoga is an ancient practice known to improve mental, spiritual and physical well-being among its practitioners.
Led by Dr. Geoffrey Tremont, neuropsychology director at Rhode Island Hospital, the study will direct patients through a 12-week, twice-weekly yoga regimen. He hopes to enroll 70 patients in the study of yoga’s role in improving cognitive conditions among people diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment. The hospital’s yoga program involves meditation, physical postures, breathing exercises and relaxation.
Yoga practitioners reportedly experience more relaxation and less stress, as well as improved flexibility and posture. According to the “2016 Yoga in America Study,” which was prepared by Yoga Journal and Yoga Alliance, more than 36 million Americans now practice yoga.
For more information, contact Cara at (401)-444-6629 or ccrook@lifespan.org.
