The key to happiness, at least in the short term, lies more in the downward facing dog than in race walking, according to research conducted at Boston University. Researchers at the school followed two randomized groups
over a 12-week long period. One group practiced yoga three times a week
for one hour, while the other walked for the same period of
time. Using magnetic resonance spectroscopic (MRS) imaging, the
participants’ brains were scanned before the study began. At week 12,
the researchers compared the GABA levels of both groups before and after
their final 60-minute session.
Each subject was also asked to assess his or her psychological state
at several points throughout the study, and those who practiced yoga
reported a more significant decrease in anxiety and greater improvements
in mood than those who walked.Researchers found that the positive changes in the subjects reports were associated with climbing GABA
levels.
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It’s a big jump to generalize that yoga may be superior to “other forms of exercise.” All this study shows is that it might be superior to walking one hour tree days a week, as measured by GABA levels. They should repeat the study with exercise that elevates heartbeats into the 80% max range. The results might be very different.
Even as one who thinks highly of the practice of yoga for overall physical and mental health, I find that I have to agree with “tuff old jock”.
The testing seems a bit manipulated to assure the results that were wanted.
A wider and more diverse variety of exercises should have been cross tested with one another.
namaste
What is it with the either/or mentality in fitness publications and studies ? Yoga is exercise. Do both, and it is probably better for you than doing one OR the other.
In most Western societies, individuals do not always have the time to do “both” and must opt for doing “one or the other”…
Good clinical studies that might have the time strapped pick that which might be optinal for them would undoubtedly be welcomed by all.
However, you are correct that a varied routine that took advantage of doing both would perhaps be best.
namaste
Bill says,Hay William!! you did’nt answer my last question! But thats Ok I forgive you any way!! Good to see you back in their! I myself have never tryed Yoga,and I dont know anybody that does.I walk a lot,anywhere from one mile to around five a day just according to how I feel and what I wont to do.If its realy HOT I wait until around 19:30 t0 20:00 to start.BUT,(anxiety ) I have no problem with because He said in 1 peter 5:7 Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.Thanks for your time and have a Blessed Day!!!!! Bill C.