Monday, February 4, 2008

What is GABA? And What Does Yoga Have To Do With It?


While many studies are taking place using Yoga practice as a healing agent and an expressway to pain relief, one recent study I've read deals with depression. Dr. Chris Streeter in Seattle Washington found that the levels of GABA ( okay, that is code for the brain neurotransmitter GAMMA -AMINOBUTYRIC ) were signifignatly higher after a Yoga session, whereas the control group showed no increased level.

So, that does GABA have to do with anything? Low levels of GABA are linked to mild depression and anxiety, as well as PMS symptoms. Dr. Streeter also noting that epilepsy patients are given drugs to boost GABA to calm anxiety attacks which often bring on seizures.
Can practicing Yoga twice a week calm us, make us happier, help us to deal with stress with a peaceful heart, keep our GABA levels high ( those of us/you that want scientific purpose to your yogic health benefits) to continually lift our spirits?
YES! All of this leading to a deep wellness within, always there and constant. Yogis have known this for ages, but most western minds want proof. Can we not have faith in these benefits? Just keep doing your yoga, and you will notice the difference.
Here's to high GABA GABA GABA levels and may we all be smiling more often.!!
Namaste' Diane

1 comment:

Admin said...

Hi Diane, GABA regulation is essential for people with bipolar disorder, too. And taking GABA supplements is a total waste -- it won't cross the blood-brain barrier.

Here's a related post about GABA and yoga for bipolar disorder.