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The Benefits of Tai Chi

Typically, conventional medical practices are where we tend to flock towards when we have health problems. But there are alternative practices, like tai chi, that may provide benefits to your wellbeing as well.

Tai chi, also known as moving meditation, embodies slow, gentle movement and deep breathing. Originating in China as a martial art and a type of self‐defense, tai chi focuses on balance and intentional movement.While moving at your own pace and participating in light exercises and stretches, you are able to relieve stress and improve other medical conditions, like high blood pressure and chronic pain. The different moves demonstrated in tai chi connect to one another, ensuring comfort.

Unlike yoga, tai chi is low impact and doesn’t put unnecessary stress on muscles and joints. Because of its low impact, simplicity, and inexpensiveness, tai chi is perfect for all ages—especially older adults with joint pain. It can be enjoyed outside and inside, and it can be taken alone or with a group.

 

Benefits of Tai chi

According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, research has shown that tai chi has help improve a number of health problems, including chronic diseases and overall wellbeing. Here are a few health conditions tai chi can benefit.

  • Preventing falls. Tai chi can help improve stability and balance, providing assistance to those with neurodegenerative diseases, like Parkinson’s disease.
  • Soothing chronic pain. Pain related to knee osteoarthritis and fibromyalgia has been shown to decrease thanks to tai chi. 
  • Increasing flexibility. Although tai chi has not been proven to help pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis, research shows that it can improve lower extremity range of motion.

Tai chi has also been proven to improve mood, aerobic capacity, stamina, muscle strength and definition, join pains, and high blood pressure.