The idea that something as simple as breathing can influence brain health often feels intuitive—but science is beginning to explain how.
A randomized controlled trial explored the effects of yogic breathing. Yogic breathing, also called Pranayama, is a collection of techniques to regulate breathing voluntarily. A randomized controlled trial explored the effects of yogic breathing on a fascinating biomarker: nerve growth factor (NGF).
Nerve growth factor (NGF) :-
NGF is a neurotrophic protein essential for:
- Survival and maintenance of neurons
- Cognitive function
- Protection against neurodegeneration
The reduced levels of which is associated with conditions like Alzheimer’s disease.
The Trial results:-
The study demonstrated that:
- Yogic breathing techniques can increase salivary NGF levels.
- The effect is likely mediated through parasympathetic (vagal) activation and relaxation responses
Inference:
Emerging evidence shows that practices like yoga and meditation can modulate gene expression, influence stress pathways, and impact inflammatory and metabolic processes. This study adds a layer suggesting that breath itself can act as a biological signal.
If simple yogic breathing can influence neurobiology, shouldn’t we explore it more ?
MBH/PS