Benefits of Tai Chi

BENEFITS OF TAI CHI 10 REASONS YOU SHOULD TRY IT! INCREASED BRAIN ACTIVITY Studies show Tai chí lower risk of dementia development. Researchers from the University of South Florida collaborated with Chinese researchers to compare the effects of tai chi-an ancient Chinese practice of slow. deliberate movements intended to help with relaxation and balance-on the brain. They split 120 elderly Shanghai residents into four groups: one group practiced tai chi, one walked, another upped their social interaction, and the last group just went about their normal routines. The results? After 40 weeks, those who practiced tai chi three times a week had the biggest improvements in brain volume, an important part of cognition since gray matter typically shrinks with age. The social group also saw an improvement, but not as significant as the tai chi group. Researchers suggest that the high level of attention needed for the different tai chi movements could be what sets it apart. IMPROVED JOINT FUNCTION This latest research adds to other science-backed tai chi benefits. A Tufts Medical Center study found that adults with knee osteoarthritis-the most common joint disease in midlife-saw up to three times greater improvement in both pain and joint function from biweekly tai chi sessions. And a study from Ireland found that a combo of exercise, meditation, and breathing helped relieve anxiety and depression among study participants. 3 TAI CHI LOWERS RISK OF HEART FAILURE In a 30-person pilot study at Harvard Medical School, 12 weeks of tai chi improved participants' ability to walk and quality of life. It also reduced blood levels of B-type natriuretic protein, an indicator of heart failure. Although it's an old art form, Tai Chí meets the needs of contemporary people struggling with stress, wellness, and other health issues. Some benefits for people who practice Tai Chí regularly help them: 4: Lose weight 5: Improve balance 6: Increase flexibility 7: increase focus 8: Learn to relax naturally 9: Increase strength 10: Improve aerobic conditioning BROUGHT TO YOU BY ACADEMY OF MARTIAL ARTS NAPLESKARATE.COM reference: www.prevention.com/health/brain-games/health-benefits-tai-chi