Yogic Interventions in Clock Dysfunction, Neurodegeneration and Ageing

The major clinical challenges in the twenty-first century include circadian dysfunction and neurodegenerative diseases related to ageing and lifestyle diseases. Yoga-based lifestyle interventions can serve as an integrative, alternative, and complementary therapy to modern medicine for healthy ageing. Further, the circadian timing system (CTS) consists of the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN), a biological clock localized in the hypothalamus which perceives photic cues and regulates the internal rhythm of the individual through complex molecular feedback loops. Disturbances in circadian rhythms cause a breakdown in homeostatic balance and hence disrupt daily rhythms of sleep–wake cycles, metabolic processes and behavior, resulting in a variety of diseases. Age-related modifications to the CTS result in sleep disorders, cancer metabolic, cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, Huntington’s disease, Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and dementia. Yoga, originating from ancient India, has gained popularity in Europe for its health benefits and ease of practice. It consists of simple mind and body techniques, including Asanas (physical postures), Pranayama (breathing techniques) and Dhyana (meditation for concentration). This chapter examines the connection between circadian clock dysfunction and neurodegeneration in ageing and how incorporating simple Yoga-based interventions can help synchronize the circadian clock, enhance neuroplasticity, and provide neuroprotection for healthy ageing. Additionally, we address how Yoga and meditation have demonstrated benefits in improving and managing health conditions such as diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease, and immune and metabolic disorders. Further study on the benefits of yogic intervention and a deeper understanding of the underlying mechanisms of its health benefits will improve treatment options and healthcare policy making, and expand our perspectives on disease treatment and management.