Tai Chi, Your Body and Your Mind

Exercise and fitness

You’ve probably seen the images – extremely graceful, flowing, dance-like movements that are designed to condition and balance the body and reduce stress.

It’s called Tai Chi – a form of mind-body exercise that was originally developed in China more than 2000 years ago as a martial art form.

The benefits of Tai Chi? There are many, including the following:

Psychological – Research shows that those who practice Tai Chi demonstrate increased relaxation, better sleep patterns, reduced stress, improved self-esteem and mood, increased feelings of self-awareness and, because it is generally practiced in a group setting, many report increased sociability and a better disposition.

Musculoskeletal – Those who practice Tai Chi report improved physical strength, posture, flexibility, muscle tone and strength and decreased bone loss as they age, especially in women.

Cardiopulmonary – Tai Chi produces a decrease in blood pressure and more effective breathing.

Physical – Many who practice Tai Chi experience increased energy, improved immune function, relief from chronic pain symptoms, and better balance and motor coordination.

The practice of Tai Chi is beneficial to all, but particularly for seniors who require simple movements and a slower pace in their exercise routine. Many older individuals report fewer falls because of better balance.

The March-April 2006 issue of Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine published the results of a study, which found that Tai Chi helped to improve balance, muscle strength, endurance and flexibility in only six weeks; additional improvements were noted after 12 weeks. The research concluded that Tai Chi is a “potent intervention” that may facilitate the reversal of certain limitations and help older individuals to continue living on their own longer.

There are many ways to improve your body and your mind, including regular chiropractic care, proper diet and nutrition, and exercise and fitness. All contribute to help make a healthier you!

Dr Rachel Asks some important questions of interest to Wembley residents - Chiropractor Wembley Dr Rachel Asks...

Would you rather feel good or be healthy?
Ask most people in Wembley and they want to feel good. Careful! Would you take medicine that makes you feel good, rather than vomit to expel improperly prepared food? Every chiropractic client knows that you can't measure your health by how you feel. True health is when your body works as it should.
Why are chiropractors wary of the germ theory?
Louis Pasteur originated the idea that germs caused disease. Yet, on his deathbed he recanted, declaring, "It's not the seed, but the soil." Meaning, it's not the germ that causes disease, but the condition of the body that allows the germ to thrive. Chiropractic care in our Wembley office is designed to bolster your resistance so germs don't see you as a good host.