Imaging Findings of the Brain After Performing Yoga: A PET study

We used 18F-FDG and PET modality to examine activation or deactivation of the neural substrates after subjects performed Hatha Yoga. Seven experienced yoga practitioners participated in our study and all practiced fifteen selected Asanas (Postures of Yoga) for an hour after the oral ingestion of 37 MBq (1 mCi) of 18F-FDG. Then whole brain imaging was performed. Blood pressure was also monitored before and after practicing Yoga. The data were analysed using statistical software, SPM 96 and two contrasts such as Yoga minus (-) Control and Control-Yoga, were taken into consideration. During Yoga-Control the imaging findings showed increased activation in the bilateral sensori-motor area. Control-Yoga showed deactivation in a wide range of deep neural substrates of the bilateral brain hemisphere such as inferior and medial frontal lobes, temporal lobes, parts of the limbic system, and cerebellum. We conclude form the PET findings that there was an over all relaxation of the brain leading to the quiescent state of mind.