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You’ve probably seen articles recommending tai chi as a great exercise to help older adults maintain balance and muscle strength. But this ancient Chinese practice is a type of mind-body medicine that also exercises the ways in which emotional, mental, social, spiritual, and behavioral factors can directly affect health, says the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM).
Tai chi (pronounced "tie chee" and also known by some other names and spellings) is a mind-body practice that originated in China as a martial art back in the 12th century. When doing tai chi, you move your body slowly and gently while breathing deeply and meditating. (The exercise is sometimes called "moving meditation.") Each movement flows into the next. Tai chi, those who practice it believe, helps a vital energy called qi (pronounced "chee," meaning "air" or "power") flow through the body. In traditional Chinese medicine, this vital energy or life force is said to regulate a person's spiritual, emotional, mental, and physical health.
Breathing and meditation during the movements focuses attention, suspends the stream of thoughts, and relaxes the body and mind. This deep, relaxed focus helps increase inner calm and awareness, practitioners believe.
If you are considering learning tai chi, the NCCAM recommends you clear it with your doctor first. Tai chi is generally safe and low-impact, but the movement may not be suitable for those with muscle or joint problems.
SOURCE: National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine
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05/08
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