I don’t know about you, but I’m always looking for ways to improve my memory.   When I think of meditation, I associate it with helping to reduce stress and lower blood pressure.    Now, there is exciting new evidence that it may also help memory.   

In a study conducted at the University of Pennsylvania by Andrew Newberg, MD, researchers looked at brain images and cognitive tests for individuals aged 52 to 77 with memory problems.    In the subjects that meditated for 8 weeks, their tests showed improvement in cognition, general memory and attention.    

The type of meditation used in this study is called Kirtan Kriya, which is a “12 minute singing exercise…that involves repetitive finger movements plus singing the sounds Saa Taa Naa Maa” (Alzheimer’s Research and Prevention Foundation, Newberg AB et al. Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease 2010 Apr;20(2).    At our Center, we have a wonderful yoga therapist that comes regularly, and teaches yoga and meditation to our seniors.  For years, she’s been doing this type of exercise and it’s wonderful to know there may be yet another benefit to her classes.   Now, the staff want to do it as much as our seniors!