07/09/2022
The Benefits of Tai Chi for Seniors
By Wesley Smith (Edited for length and clarity)
Getting older doesn't mean you have to lose your mobility. One great way to help prevent the effects old age is to take up Tai Chi, which has been practiced for thousands of years. Tai Chi is a Chinese martial art that focuses on both spiritual and mental aspects integrated into movement, creating a meditative form of exercise.
Many senior care facilities and seniors have embraced this style of conditioning and workout rather than exercise featuring muscular tension. Tai Chi has become increasingly popular worldwide and there are many places where students can take lessons supervised by Tai Chi Masters.
The main concept is that focusing the mind only on movements helps reach a state of mental clarity and calmness and reduces stress. Standing and deep breathing meditation help to focus consciousness and restore physical balance and energy, serving both mental and physical aspects.
According to scientists, it is the ideal exercise for the elderly. Researchers reveal that seniors, who on a regular basis perform or take part in it, had a lower chance of suffering from high blood pressure and were stronger physically, helping them maintain good health.
In one particular study pulse measurements revealed Tai Chi was beneficial because it improves the contraction and expansion of the arteries and the strength of the knee muscles. In the case of the arteries, arterial compliance is a valuable indicator of heart health.
Other studies have found that focusing on strength training alone has led to a decline in arterial compliance. In addition, studies say that people with mild cognitive impairment or early dementia can benefit from exercises like Tai Chi and it can have positive effects on memory.
In China, it is immensely popular due to its purported health benefits. It is believed to prolong life, delay aging, strengthen tendons and muscles, increase flexibility, and help in the treatment of arthritis, high blood pressure, heart disease, digestive disorders, arthritis, cancer, depression, and a host of other ill
nesses. Many of these claims are not supported scientifically but there is evidence it improves balance and fall prevention, endurance and strength, walking, fibromyalgia, and stress.
Aside from health benefits, there are other reasons it is suitable for the elderly. Movements are not only gentle, but low impact. There is minimal risk of injury, it can be done anytime and anywhere, requires little space, can be done at one's own pace, is not competitive, is a good form of meditation, and is stimulating because a variety of movements keep people interested. Seniors should take advantage of the benefits of this form of exercise.
