By Donna V. Scaglione
Looking for an exercise that’s easy on the joints, can still build strength, balance, and flexibility — and isn’t walking? Consider tai chi (pronounced ty-CHEE’), an ancient Chinese exercise that features more than 100 movements and can be adapted for whatever condition you’re in. (Some classes are tailored for those in wheelchairs or who have recently undergone surgery.)
Tai chi is sometimes called “moving meditation” because it combines deep breathing and focus with slow gentle movements that don’t require fully extending joints or tightening muscles. And, as more investigation is being done on its health benefits, scientists are crediting tai chi with boosting mental health, soothing pain, and improving heart health.
1. Lift depression
Want a natural way to relieve depression? Tai chi may be it. In a study of depressed seniors, those who practiced tai chi weekly experienced more improvement in their symptoms than those treated with standard medication, researchers at UCLA found. They also reported improved memory and cognition, as well as energy level and quality of life, according to AFP Relaxnews.
“Depression can lead to serious consequences, including greater morbidity, disability, mortality, and increased cost of care," Helen Lavretsky, a UCLA professor-in-residence of psychiatry, told AFP Relaxnews. "With tai chi, we may be able to treat these conditions without exposing (patients) to additional medications."
