The Yogi masters were right—meditation and breathing exercises can sharpen your mind

It has long been claimed by Yogis and Buddhists that meditation and ancient breath-focused practices, such as pranayama, strengthen our ability to focus on tasks. A new study by researchers at Trinity College Dublin explains for the first time the neurophysiological link between breathing and attention. Breath-focused meditation and yogic breathing practices have numerous known cognitive benefits, including increased ability […]

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Get fit to cut your diabetes risk during pregnancy

(HealthDay)—If she’s fit, a woman is less likely to develop diabetes during pregnancy, a new study contends. Researchers who followed 1,300 U.S. women found that high levels of fitness before pregnancy were tied to a 21 percent lower risk of gestational diabetes. These findings show that women should think about getting into shape before conceiving, according to the University of […]

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Posting your vacation online may make you forget it

(HealthDay)—Over the past decade, smartphones and social media have blanketed the planet like a technological tsunami. The result is that nearly 70 million new photos and 5 billion new posts are uploaded to Instagram and Facebook every day, respectively. But a new study suggests that constantly sharing the moments of your life online may undermine your ability to remember the […]

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Gene twist can make your blood pressure spike from salt

(HealthDay)—New research sheds light on why some people’s blood pressure is especially sensitive to salt. The research team previously discovered that a natural gene variation that occurs in 48 percent of people increases a person’s chances of having blood pressure that’s sensitive to salt. Their new study revealed how this gene variant prevents the body from eliminating excess salt. The […]

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Reading to your kids might boost their social skills

(HealthDay)—Parents who read to their infants and toddlers may help them develop skills that pay big dividends when they start school, a new study suggests. Specifically, reading aloud and pretend play may offset disruptive behaviors—such as hyperactivity and aggression—and improve attention, researchers found. “When you read with your child, it’s really a warm, nice time together,” said lead researcher Dr. […]

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