Heartmind Tai Chi
There is much written about the health benefits of Tai Chi. It is interesting that the benefits vary based on the individual and are often in unexpected areas.
The Body
As an exercise for overall health Tai Chi has been shown to be very effective. In a study at the Harvard School of Medicine, it was concluded that Tai Chi could help lower blood pressure and increase oxygen saturation levels in the hemoglobin.
*Leg strength
is markedly improved as a result of regular practice of Tai Chi.
*Balance
In a study at the University of Atlanta 70% of test subjects were shown to have a significant improvement in balance. In addition, test subjects who had had strokes maintained this improvement after six months and beyond.
*Falls
In the U.S. in 2012 falls in older adults were estimated to cost $20 billion.
In a 1000 person study done in Australia senior citizen participants who practiced Tai Chi were shown to have a 70% less rate of falls than that of the control group who did not practice Tai Chi.
*Osteoporosis
As a weight bearing exercise Tai Chi has been shown to be very effective for people with osteoporosis, improving bone mass.
*Osteoarthritis
People with arthritis report significant improvement in range of motion and control of arthritic pain.
Students with fibromyalgia and muscle spasms report lessening of symptoms and steady improvement.
All students report better and more restful sleep.
The Mind
The process we use in learning Tai Chi enhances focus, attention and awareness. All students report improvement in these areas, as well as, a centered sense of calmness and the physical/mental tools to combat stress. The most important benefit of Tai Chi is that it improves the quality of our life.
Accounts from Current Students
Benefits achieved by current students appear on the Student Perspectives web page.