You’ve probably heard by now about senior-friendly tai chi. This martial art is recommended by organizations like the Mayo Clinic, Centers for Disease Prevention and Control, and the National Institutes of Health, to name a few.

Tai chi involves a series of gentle and focused movements accompanied by breathing exercises. It is self-paced and helps you stretch your muscles and feel relaxed. Individual research studies have shown there are many health benefits when tai chi is performed regularly. According to the National Center for Complimentary and Integrative Health, tai chi can help improve stability and balance; reduce pain from osteoarthritis in the knee and back; and improve overall quality of life for people with cancer, heart failure, and fibromyalgia.

Additional benefits

Now, a study published in the American Journal of Health Promotion has revealed more interesting information. The study’s authors conducted a review and meta-analysis of over 75 peer-reviewed clinical trials published between 1993 and 2007. Not surprisingly, they found that tai chi had favorable effects on heart and lung function, bone density, balance, and mood.

The study also yielded some information about immune response. The researchers found that tai chi was associated with better immunity to shingles. In addition, it seemed as if people who practiced it regularly had a better immune response to the shingles vaccine.

Researchers believe there are many as-yet-unknown health benefits that can come from regularly practicing tai chi. It’s also one of the safest ways to get some exercise.

出处：https://www.ericksonliving.com/tribune/articles/2019/03/more-good-news-about-tai-chi