Have you ever been watching a movie or tv show and a scene appears where older adults wearing loose linen pants practice slow, meditative poses in a park or other outdoor setting. I bet you wondered what exactly they were doing. It’s not anything magical or mystical. It’s actually just Tai Chi, an ancient Chinese mind body practice. Unlike traditional fitness that focuses on high intensity training, Tai Chi takes a gentler approach. According to Harvard Medical School, Tai Chi focuses on treating the whole person and enhancing balance between the body’s systems. Regular practice of Tai Chi may improve and preserve health in older adults.
Tai Chi is an ancient Chinese martial art with origins dating back to 12th century China. It involves a series of movements that are performed slowly and continuously along with deep breathing. It’s also referred to as “moving meditation” because the mind and the body must work together. Each movement flows into the next, keeping the body in constant motion. Even so, it is gentle on joints and slow enough to not cause shortness of breath.
Potential benefits of Tai Chi:
- Increased balance and stability– reduces the risk of a fall, and builds confidence to help older adults move about more safely.
- Improve posture, strengthens core muscles and reduces back pain
- Improve emotional and mental health– reduce depression and anxiety
- Improve sleep quality
- May also improve cognitive function and memory, help with pain management, and improve overall quality of life
If you would like to try out Tai Chi, check with your local community center, senior center or gym to see if they offer courses. Senior Planet also offers free virtual classes that you can do from the comfort of your home. Invite a friend or loved one over and practice together. Always check in with your doctor to make sure Tai Chi is a good fit for your lifestyle and abilities. Be well, friends, as you continue to pursue health through movement.
–Bethany Sellai is the Resident Blogger at Be Active Be Well. She lives well with her husband and three sons in the Central Valley.
DISCLAIMER: This article contains information that is intended to help the readers be better informed regarding exercise and health care. It is presented as general advice on health care. Always consult your doctor for your individual needs. Before beginning any new exercise program it is recommended that you seek medical advice from your personal physician. This article is not intended to be a substitute for the medical advice of a licensed physician. The reader should consult with their doctor in any matters relating to his/her health.
