Health Benefits of Tai Chi
Many people are aware of the Tai Chi `form'; a sequence of flowing movements, performed slowly and smoothly. Although only one facet of Mountain River's complete Tai Chi curriculum, practice of the form encodes correct movement habits and provides multiple health benefits. Already well known in China for being conducive to health and longevity, in recent years the effects of Tai Chi on health have been studied by Western medical science. See this article from the BBC, and the articles and academic studies below.
- Improving Balance and Stability — Tai Chi enhances balance by strengthening the lower body and improving body awareness and posture. Regular practice reduces falls. [Li et al., 2005 — Tai Chi and Fall Reduction in Older Adults]
- Reducing Stress and Anxiety — Important in today's uncertain world. The meditative nature of the Tai Chi form encourages deep, diaphragmatic breathing and focused attention, which help to reduce stress, fatigue and anxiety levels. [Stress Reduction Through Tai Chi: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (2024)]
- Enhancing Cardiovascular and Respiratory Health — Tai Chi has been shown to improve cardiovascular fitness and lung function, particularly in those with chronic conditions like heart disease and COPD. [Zheng et al., 2015 — Tai Chi and Cardiorespiratory Fitness in Healthy Adults]
- Increasing Flexibility and Joint Health — Regular Tai Chi practice promotes flexibility and helps maintain joint mobility, which can be particularly beneficial for those with arthritis. The Arthritis Foundation recommends Tai Chi as a safe way to improve range of motion. [Arthritis Foundation — Tai Chi for Arthritis]
- Boosting Cognitive Function — The practice of Tai Chi has been associated with improvements in executive function, memory, and processing speed. [Wayne et al., 2014 — Tai Chi and Cognitive Function in Older Adults]
