Life with Chronic Conditions: Kirtan Kriya Meditation

In last week’s Journal Watch  there was an article about how a certain type of yoga meditation Kirtan Kriya improved cognitive function and may protect women against the development of Alzheimer’s Disease.

A quick Google search came up with the following:

The Alzheimer’s Research & Prevention Foundation in Tucson, Arizona, has been studying the effects yoga meditation has on the brain and discovered (confirmed, really) that a certain form of yoga meditation, known as Kirtan Kriya, can have immediate, long-term positive benefits for the brain. Practicing this simple twelve-minute yoga meditation has been shown to bring about the following benefits:

• Improve cerebral blood flow (help you think better).
• Improve blood flow to the posterior cingulated gyrus (improve memory retrieval).
• Increase activity in the frontal lobe (sharpen attention, concentration, and focus).
• Replenish vital neurotransmitters and brain chemicals, such as acetylcholine, norepinephrine, and dopamine (which help the brain function more smoothly).
• Increase energy levels, improve sleep quality, reduce stress (lower cortisol levels).
• Improve both short- and long-term psychological health and spirtual well being.

Kirtan Kriya is an ancient yoga practice that involves the combination of focused breath work, singing or chanting (and whispering), finger movements (called “mudras”), and visualization. To perform it properly, you use or activate all of your senses, awakening your brain and rejuvenating your energy. Psychology Today

Also in last week’s Journal Watch, was research showing that a combination of cognitive and motor training may slow or reverse the progress of dementia.  This type of meditation does combine cognitive and motor skills.

Start by reading Practice the 12 Minute Yoga Meditation Exercise.   

If you prefer just an audio voice to follow try Karmari & Manvir  

After you understand the basics, practice along with the video.