Seniors Enjoy the Benefits of Tai Chi

The practice of Tai Chi (pronounced tie-chee) originated centuries ago in China.  Buddhist monks and Taoist priests would study the movements of animals and the solar system, and transformed those movements into exercises designed to build strength and increase longevity.

Tai Chi, as it is practiced today, involves a series of low-impact, gracefully controlled body movements that include stepping, shifting weight, and rotating, while the body remains straight and upright.  Tai Chi is practiced very slowly, evenly, and gently, with an emphasis on continuity of movement. A key principle of Tai Chi is that nothing is forced. It is thought of as a living language of body, mind and spirit.

The benefits of Tai Chi are proving to be a useful adjunct to western medicine. Tai Chi helps cultivate better balance by improving coordination and control of the body during movements. Senior citizens, into their 80’s and beyond, are finding that the strength, balance and flexibility they develop through Tai Chi practice helps them extend the benefits of good health and self-confidence far into their later years.

The focused attention learned in Tai Chi practice not only relaxes the body and mind, but helps cultivate mental alertness. Tai Chi strengthens muscles, helps reduce stress, improves concentration, and increases energy.

The health community continuously studies the effect of Tai Chi on seniors. One group of seniors, with an average age of 80, participated in a study at the University of Illinois in 2006.  This study found within as little as six months, strong improvement in balance, energy levels, flexibility, and sleep quality were recorded for the group.

In another study at The Mayo Clinic, it was found that seniors who regularly practiced Tai Chi relieved symptoms of anxiety, chronic pain and depression.  Improved coordination and reduced their number of falls were also characteristic.  Other notable improvements included everyday physical functioning which promoted independent living.   Reduced arthritis pain, joint stiffness, high blood pressure were other benefits of Tai Chi.

Tai Chi is truly accessible to people of any age. Even people who use walkers can participate in a modified form of Tai Chi. It requires no special clothes or equipment, and can easily be practiced anywhere, and there’s very little risk of overdoing it. Classes are available at senior centers, in parks, community centers and at YMCA and YWCA facilities.

Senior citizens all over America are reaping the benefits of Tai Chi while they are meeting new friends, increasing their self-confidence and independence.