Tai Chi is believed to reduce stress, anxiety and depression, improve mood and enhance overall psychological well being, but convincing evidence has so far been lacking. A systematic review of the subject does back up the thought that Tai Chi is good for psychological health.
Dr. Chenchen Wang, associate professor of the Tufts University School of Medicine and fellow workers assessed the outcomes of 40 researches that comprise 17 randomized controlled trials, into the mental health effects of Tai Chi
The researchers found that practicing Tai Chi was associated with reduced stress, anxiety, depression and mood disturbance, and increased self-esteem.
However, the quality of the studies identified was generally modest and more rigorous, prospective, well controlled randomized trials with appropriate comparison groups and validated outcome measures are needed.
More detailed knowledge about the physiological and psychological effects of Tai Chi exercise may lead to new approaches to promote health, treat chronic medical conditions, better inform clinical decisions and further explicate the mechanisms of successful mind-body medicine.
Journal Reference:
Chenchen Wang, Raveendhara Bannuru, Judith Ramel, Bruce Kupelnick, Tammy Scott and Christopher H Schmid. Tai Chi on psychological well-being: systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2010; (in press)
Zestzfulness adds: A bilingual Tai Chi group practices every Tuesday and Friday, 8.30 – 9.30pm at the courtyard of Hin Hua Secondary School, Klang. Beginners welcome. Call PC at 3168 8469 for details.
Tai Chi is a good but difficult exercise that ensures health and longevity.
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