069 - How Yoga Shapes the Brain and Supports Mental Health with Dr. Jonathan Rosenthal

In this engaging episode of "Permission to Flow," host Jessica Hwang sits down with Jonathan Rosenthal to explore the profound impacts of yoga on mental health, particularly for younger individuals aged 12 to 29. Jonathan, a neurologist with a passion for yoga, shares fascinating insights into the ways yoga can benefit conditions like ADHD, depression, and anxiety. Jessica and Jonathan delve into the science behind yoga, discussing how practices like pranayama, meditation, and asana create a ripple effect that extends well beyond a mat, positively influencing stress management and overall mental well-being.

 

Understanding yoga's effect on the brain, neuroplasticity, and mood regulation, the conversation sheds light on the transformative potential of incorporating yoga into daily life. Whether you're a seasoned yogi or just curious about its benefits, this episode offers valuable perspectives and practical tips to enrich your mental and physical health through yoga.

 

Jessica and Jonathan’s conversation is not just informative but also deeply personal, as they reflect on their own yoga journeys and the joy of sharing their passion with others. Tune in to discover how yoga could be the key to enhancing your mental health and emotional resilience, particularly during times of transition. Don't forget to subscribe and visit Jessica's website to stay updated on more insightful discussions!

 

Topics discussed in this episode:

00:00 Yoga provides calmness, presence, and lifelong benefits.

04:24 Yoga in education faces research and accessibility challenges.

08:04 Effect sizes: 30–50% improvement in symptoms.

10:10 Different yoga methods yield similar outcomes generally.

14:49 Adapt practice mindset to improve mental health.

16:39 Different yoga forms teach unique lessons.

21:02 Yoga helps ADHD, depression, anxiety, despite debate.

25:24 Deep breathing from yoga helps reduce anxiety. 27:09 Yoga-related adverse event requires further investigation.

31:35 Finding personal balance between tradition and preference. 33:13 Balance comfort with challenge for personal growth.

39:04 Moderate stress optimal for performance, yoga helps

42:27 Yoga helps manage optimal stress levels effectively.

45:50 Risk factors vary per disease; genetics influence.

47:09 MS risk increases further from equator.

50:55 Intense yoga increases neuroplasticity, hippocampus growth.

55:57 Ended recording after enjoying a lengthy conversation.

56:42 Subscribe for more from Jessica Hwang Coaching.

 

Quotes from the episode:

"Having an option like yoga to treat or at least help with the symptoms of these diseases is really powerful."

"I do think that people really do kind of fall into the right practices."

"Meaning that we don't perceive things as threatening or as stressful as a result of yoga practice. And if we do perceive them that way, people have the tools to self regulate and change that perception."

 

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Credits:

Music co-written by Steven Murillo (@someoneinatreeband) & Jessica Hwang (@jessicahwangcoaching)

Edit by Corey Stein (https://coreystein.studio)