August 2024

I recently read the book The Telomere Effect: A revolutionary approach to living younger, healthier, longer. Dr. Elizabeth Blackburn, a Nobel Prize winning molecular biologist, and Dr. Elissa Epel, psychologist, explain the fascinating science of telomeres. Telomeres are like caps on the ends of DNA – their length is a measure of healthy aging. Telomerase is the enzyme required for healthy telomeres.

Every day, my choices affect whether I increase or decrease the length of my telomeres.

Excessive stress is particularly damaging to telomeres. Practices like yoga, meditation, time in nature and positive social relationships are beneficial for telomeres and telomerase production.

One study of dementia family caregivers captured my attention. Dementia caregivers have high levels of chronic stress. The study group engaged in a Kundalini yoga practice that combined chanting (Kirtan Kriya), hand movements (mudras) and visualization. Over eight weeks, participants who practiced for 12 minutes a day showed significant improvement in cognitive function, mental health, depressive symptoms, and increased telomerase. I demonstrate the practice of Kirtan Kriya in the video below.