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Tai Chi – The Perfect Balancing Act
By Sere Halverson
Tai chi combines the concentration of breath, slow movement, and meditation. It’s a wonderful form of exercise that reaps amazing benefits for anyone. But when it comes to exercise for an older senior, Tai Chi couldn’t be more perfect.
Your aging parent or loved one may have difficulty performing more demanding exercise, but Tai Chi, with its gentle movements, packs a big positive punch for good health. In fact, some seniors find that after practicing Tai Chi, they can perform tougher workouts they previously couldn’t, such as running and lifting weights.
Tai Chi, Chai Tea... What’s the Diff?
Chai Tea is a spicy drink originating in India, served hot or cold. And while it’s delicious, lifting the cup and bringing it to your lips doesn’t count as exercise. That’s where Tai Chi comes in.
Tai Chi, often called Meditation in Motion, is an ancient Chinese practice in which sequences of movements called forms are carried out with fluid and seamless transitions. Anyone can practice Tai Chi anywhere – at home alone, in nature, or in an organized group setting.
Let’s Talk Benefits
The medical community has been paying close attention to Tai Chi and its long list of proven benefits. Numerous studies have been conducted by leading universities, including the University of Illinois and Emory University.
Practicing Tai Chi can:
- Relieve pain, stress, and depression.
- Improve performance of daily activities.
- Improve balance and coordination.
- Reduce high blood pressure
- Reduce the risk of a fatal or disabling fall by 50%.
- Increase efficiency.
- Improve muscle tone, strength, and flexibility.
- Enhance blood circulation to the brain.
- Supply the body with fresh oxygen.
- Help slow bone loss.
Where You’ll Find This "Miracle" Cure
Check out YMCAs, senior centers, gyms, hospitals, wellness centers, and adult education. You can also purchase a DVD or check out your TV listings for fitness programs that feature Tai Chi.
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