Effect of 3 month Anaadhi Retreat on Biomarkers

A panel of scientists from various research institutes in California and Indianapolis monitored and studied physiological and psychological responses of those individuals who participated in a 3-month long residential yoga and meditation retreat held at Isha Institute of Inner Sciences, McMinnville, TN. The retreat involved daily meditation and yoga practices, accompanied by a vegetarian diet and along with daily activities. Daily regimen included approximately 2 hours of sitting meditation practices, 1–2 hours of yoga practice with a meditative component and 1 hour of chanting. Participants were assessed before and after the retreat for psychometric measures, brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), circadian salivary cortisol levels, and pro- and anti-inflammatory factors.

BDNF is a neurotransmitter found in the brain and the rest of the body which helps with the survival of existing neurons and growth of new neurons. It is also involved in the regulation of other neurotransmitters, long term memory, stable memory function and cognitive function. BDNF levels were found to be higher at the end of the retreat indicating improved brain health.

Cortisol Awakening Response (CAR) is the increase in cortisol levels in the body within 20-30 min after waking up in the morning. Retreat participants showed higher CAR levels after the retreat as compared to the baseline measurement. This indicates enhanced physiological arousal response and alertness.

Anti-inflammatory marker Interleukin-10 (IL-10) and pro-inflammatory marker Interleukin-12 (IL-12) support regulation of immunoregulation and inflammation of the human body. Therefore their concentration in blood plasma is a good indicator of the inflammatory state of the body. Retreat participants showed an increase in IL-10 and decrease in IL-12 levels suggesting reduced inflammation and enhanced immunological readiness and resilience.

Data also showed decreased self-reported anxiety and depression and increased mindfulness in participants. Results from this study indicate the positive effect of Isha Yoga practices on multiple important biomarkers as well as perceived anxiety levels and general mind-body wellbeing.

Publication

Yoga, Meditation and Mind-Body Health: Increased BDNF, Cortisol Awakening Response, and Altered Inflammatory Marker Expression after a 3-Month Yoga and Meditation Retreat

Anaadhi Biomarker paper