Scientific Research, Covid, and Yoga

There is some optimistic news these days, as more people are getting vaccinated against COVID-19 and we see a future in which we can be with our friends and loved ones indoors, without masks, if we are fully vaccinated. My hope was buoyed yesterday as I received my first dose. I breathed in gratitude for science and scientists, and especially for the women and men who have contributed to the vaccine development.

Speaking of science, I just read a paper published last July (see reference below) that reviewed research on yoga and meditation practices and how we might use them to support our bodies and minds in this time of COVID-19. The authors looked at the possible role of yoga and meditation in (among other things):

• Reducing inflammation
• Elevating melatonin levels
• Positively affecting well-being

This is just a starting point for looking at how yoga and meditation may help in this new COVID-19 world. And in fact, it was published 8 months ago, which seems like eons ago in this pandemic. But it is exciting to consider scientific research into respiration, inflammation, our immune system – and even epigenetics and intergenerational trauma – and yoga practices that may support us in our health journey.

As noted by the authors: “…it is a time to enlist all manner of assistance in resisting and combating the multiple threats associated with [the pandemic].”

Here’s to our health. Consider yoga!

The full reference is here:
Bushell, W., R. Castle, M. Williams, K. Brouwer, R. Tanzi, D. Chopra, and P. Mills. (July 2020) “Meditation and Yoga Practices as Potential Adjunctive Treatment of SARS-CoV-2 Infection and COVID-19: A Brief Overview of Key Subjects,” Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine 26 (7) 541-556.