Mind-Body Exercises as an Intervention for Improving Executive Functioning: A Systematic Review of RCTs

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Psychology
• Behavioral Science

Background:

• Executive function (EF) is critical for daily life, and deficits can negatively impact success and well-being.
• Mindfulness-body exercise (MBE) is increasingly studied for EF improvement, but mechanisms remain unclear, leading to varied efficacy results.
• A systematic review is needed to consolidate research on MBE interventions for EF deficits in adults.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review current research on MBE interventions for improving executive function (EF) in adults.
• To discuss proposed mechanisms underlying the effects of MBE on EF.
• To guide future research directions in this field.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed, MEDLINE, ERIC, and PsycINFO.
• Included studies were randomized control trials of Qi Gong, tai chi, or yoga for adult EF improvement.
• Studies required at least two EF measures and were limited to English-language publications.

Main Results:

• Thirty-two studies met the inclusion criteria and were analyzed.
• The majority of studies reported a positive impact of MBE on executive function.
• The review outlines potential mechanisms, observations, and future research avenues.

Conclusions:

• Mindfulness-body exercise (MBE) is an effective intervention for improving executive function (EF).
• MBE should be considered a potential treatment for individuals with executive function deficits.
• Future research should identify specific MBE components and durations that yield the greatest EF benefits.