02/22/2026
β¨π§ π§π»π§πΎββοΈπ§ β¨If youβve ever felt calm and relaxed after your yoga practice, itβs not just in your head itβs actually in your brain!
Weβre introducing a new series SOUK Science Sundays where we share science based evidence on the benefits of yoga. π§πΌββοΈππ½ facilitated by Kanchan Koya PhD.
Now back to the science behind that blissed out state post yoga ππ½
Research studies show that yoga can increase brain GABA levels. GABA (gamma-amino-butyric-acid) is our innate, naturally produced anti-anxiety and calming neurotransmitter. Studied have found that yoga when compared to walking and reading (and I love both walking and reading!) is uniquely positioned to enhance GABA levels and this correlates with lower levels of anxiety and an increased sense of calm. The cool thing is that seasoned practitioners seem to enjoy a greater GABA boost once again showing that in life and yoga, consistency pays off.
So if you want to support greater GABA production for a sense of calm, ease and even better sleep, cultivating a regular yoga practice could be of great benefit.
STUDIES
PMID: 20722471
PMID: 17532734
Kanchan Koya combines her PhD in Molecular Biology from Harvard and her training from the Institute of Integrative Nutrition to bring healing spices and their amazing health benefits to kids and families everywhere. She is the creator of Spice Spice Baby, educating readers about the science-backed health benefits of spices and inspiring their use in simple and delicious ways in your kitchen. Kanchan is currently self-publishing a game-changing cookbook with 100 recipes and all the science-backed powers of spices.To get smart about spices and for recipes, visit www.spicespicebaby.com