Practicing yoga for at least three months is associated with better short-term memory, as measured by visual tasks. In a study of 100 women aged 20–65, yoga practitioners outperformed non-practitioners on alphabetical, numerical, word, and object memory tests, with significant improvements in later trials. Additionally, memory-improving methods enhanced short-term memory in the control group. The authors conclude that yoga can improve short-term memory, though the study does not establish causation.
A 3-week meditation program improved heart rate variability, galvanic skin resistance, and perceived stress scores in medical students with moderate baseline stress, shifting autonomic balance toward parasympathetic dominance. Among 30 undergraduates (mean age 21), those with moderate stress showed significant decreases in heart rate and stress scores and increases in high-frequency heart rate variability and skin resistance within 3 weeks, with no further changes at 6 weeks. Students with low stress showed similar but non-significant trends. The findings suggest meditation benefits individuals with moderate or high stress within 3 weeks, supporting its inclusion in medical curricula.
An 8-week mindfulness meditation practice, done in everyday settings without extensive training or supervision, improved working memory in MBBS students. A group of 50 students was split into test and control groups; the test group practiced regular mindfulness meditation while the control group maintained their usual routine. Working memory, measured by a visual memory test, showed a statistically significant improvement in the test group compared to both their own baseline and the control group. The findings suggest that even short-term, unsupervised mindfulness meditation can enhance working memory.
In long-term Brahmakumari meditators, EEG recordings showed high voltage alpha waves before meditation and theta waves during meditation, indicating a deep state of calmness and relaxation. Some participants also exhibited delta waves during meditation, similar to those seen in deep sleep. The study suggests regular meditation serves as an important de-stressor that may help counter stress and mental unrest, which contribute to many non-communicable diseases.