Kundalini Yoga Intervention Increases Hippocampal Volume in Older Adults: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial

Among a rapidly aging population, there is increased need for neuroprotective interventions promoting healthy neurological aging. Mind-body interventions, such as Kundalini yoga, are actively being explored as accessible means to encourage healthy aging. However, little remains known about the neurobiological effects of Kundalini yoga.

This pilot randomized-controlled trial (RCT) examined the potential neuroprotective effects of Kundalini yoga in older adults.

We conducted an RCT with 11 healthy meditation-naïve older adults. Participants were randomized to a Kundalini yoga or psychoeducation intervention. Structural magnetic resonance imaging data were obtained at baseline and 12-week follow-up. The primary outcome measure was gray matter volume of the bilateral hippocampi and bilateral posterior cingulate cortex.

We found significant right hippocampal volume increases specific to the Kundalini yoga group (P = 0.034, η_p ² = 0.408).

These findings provide initial neurobiological support for the neuroprotective effects of Kundalini yoga.