For many people, tai chi and qigong begin as gentle ways to move the body. But for seniors, practice can be a pathway to feeling grounded, purposeful, and connected.
A new study published on 6 October 2026 offers compelling evidence that traditional Chinese health‑preserving exercises do more than support physical health. They may also help strengthen self‑worth, especially when practiced within a supportive community.
If you’re exploring tai chi for the first time, this research highlights why slow, mindful movement can have such powerful effects on wellbeing.
Research Summary
Published in October 2026, the study investigated how traditional Chinese health‑preserving exercises — including tai chi and health qigong — relate to self-worth in older adults. Researchers surveyed 500 participants aged 60–80 from 12 Tai Chi and Health Qigong associations in Hong Kong.
Participants completed validated questionnaires measuring their level of traditional exercise practice, self-identity, social support and self-worth.
The researchers found a significant positive association between traditional exercise and self-worth, a key mediating factor in self-identity, and a strong moderating factor - social support. Practice helps older adults increase their sense of self-worth through a:
“shift from a focus on external achievements toward exploring inner peace and the inherent value of life,”
Highlights: What the Study Found
1. Gentle, mindful movement supports self-worth
Older adults who practiced tai chi or qigong more frequently reported higher self-worth. The slow, coordinated movements — combining breath, attention, and intention — helped participants feel more capable, centred, and connected to their bodies.
2. Self-identity is a powerful psychological pathway
The study found that tai chi and qigong strengthen self-worth indirectly by enriching self-identity. Through regular practice, participants began to see themselves not as “aging bodies in decline,” but as:
Keepers of traditional culture
Pursuers of mind–body unity
Contributors to community wellbeing
This shift in identity was strongly linked to improved self-worth.
3. Social support makes the benefits even stronger
The mediating effect of self-identity was significant only when social support was high. In other words, tai chi’s psychological benefits were strongest when participants felt encouraged by family, peers, or their practice community.
As the study notes, “social support moderated the association… which was strongest at high levels of social support.”
4. Group practice offers unique advantages
Although tai chi can be practiced individually, the study found that group practice was associated with higher self-worth. Shared practice creates a non‑competitive, supportive environment where older adults can exchange experiences, receive encouragement, and feel part of something meaningful.
What This Means
For Wulong students — and for anyone considering joining — this research reinforces what many already feel in their bodies and hearts.
Your practice is more than exercise - it strengthens your sense of identity, purpose, and inner value.
Your community matters - practicing alongside others amplifies the benefits, helping you feel supported, recognised, and connected.
Your role evolves - you may naturally become a mentor, culture‑bearer, or quiet leader within your group — roles that reinforce self-worth.
Your wellbeing grows from the inside out - tai chi and qigong invite you to explore calmness, meaning, and harmony with nature — qualities that support emotional resilience and life satisfaction.
At Wulong these insights guide how we teach: slow, mindful movement; in supportive group environment. Every class is designed to help you feel capable, connected, and valued.
Call to Action
Read the research published 6 October 2026 here https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2026.1771130
If you are looking for a program to support your health, try a Wulong class today. Click here to see all our class locations and timings https://www.wulongtaichi.com.au/tai-chi-classes