For this study, researchers wanted to assess the impact mind-body exercise could have on elderly people dealing with osteoporosis. Given that mind-body movement can improve flexibility, balance, and reduce pain, the study authors say, they theorized it could be a good intervention for osteoporosis patients.

Vitamin D sufficiency is vital for optimal musculoskeletal health—especially as you get older. “As we age, our cutaneous production, or the skin synthesis, goes down naturally,” mindbodygreen’s former vice president of scientific affairs Ashley Jordan Ferira, Ph.D., RDN, says on the mindbodygreen podcast. “Older age is a major vitamin D deficiency risk factor6 to be mindful of—for yourself and your loved ones,” she adds.