Yoga and Telomeres: A Path to Cellular Longevity?

Telomeres, which protect the chromosomal ends, are vital for cellular senescence and health. Telomere shortening, often due to stress, inflammation, and oxidative damage, is linked to age-related diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular issues, and neurodegeneration. Evidence suggests that meditation may affect telomere dynamics by reducing stress and inflammation and improving emotional regulation. Clinical trials have demonstrated that the effectiveness of these practices in increasing telomerase activity and maintaining telomere length varies by type, intensity, and duration of the practice. Yoga and meditation boost cellular resilience by lowering stress, inflammation, and oxidative damage and enhancing neuroendocrine regulation. Despite promising results, study design variability and limited long-term data require further research. Future studies should identify the most effective components, dose-response relationships, and long-term effects across populations. Increasing evidence suggests that yoga and meditation could be key preventive and therapeutic strategies to improve cellular health and longevity.