Practicing yogic meditation for 12 minutes a day reduces the inflammatory response of the immune system that is associated with many chronic health problems, including stress, according to a study published in the journal Psychoneuroendocrinology .
Researchers at the University of California had already found in previous work that meditation practice increases brain connections. Now, scientists have proven the benefits of this exercise for caregivers of patients affected by Alzheimer's disease. These people suffer a strong physical and psychological exhaustion, and are at high risk of developing depression. " Caregivers are twice as likely as other people to experience stress, " explains Helen Lavretsky, one of the authors. In addition, higher amounts of biological markers of inflammation are usually found in these people.
The scientists analyzed blood samples from people who had practiced a type of yogic meditation called Kirtan Kriya for twelve minutes a day for eight weeks. "The results show a reduction in the activity of the proteins responsible for inflammation," explains Lavretsky.
For the authors, the results are good news. "Caregivers do not have much time or energy to take a little respite, so a short daily practice of meditation , which is easy to learn, can help them feel better," says the researcher.
