A 2020 US study found that among people with heart problems, practicing taichi improved quality of life and lowered stress, anxiety, and depression. These problems can increase risk for both heart attacks and strokes. The researchers looked at data from 15 other studies involving more than 1,850 patients to reach their conclusions.
But psychological benefits are only part of the story. Taichi has multiple heart-healthy effects in the body.
For instance, research shows taichi can lower blood pressure. In a 2019 Chinese study of 208 people with somewhat elevated blood pressure, those who practiced taichi for 3 months significantly decreased their blood pressure, compared to those who didn’t.
And in a 2010 Taiwan study of patients with diabetes, taichi lowered cholesterol and Body Mass Index (BMI), a measure of weight and height used to define obesity. It also improved C-reactive protein (CRP). CRP is a marker of inflammation in the body. These changes are key ways to help boost your heart health!
Taichi (and qigong) is particularly helpful for people with heart failure, who may feel tired and weak because their heart’s pumping ability has decreased. The slow movements strengthen the heart without straining it.
If you have had a heart attack or other heart problem, taichi may be an excellent way to recover. Taichi is also effective for stroke rehabilitation. Just make sure your doctor has given you the OK to begin this new exercise first.
If you are looking for a taichi/qigong program try a Wulong class today. Click here to see all our class locations and timings.