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Before tai chi's introduction to Western students, the health benefits of tai chi chuan were largely explained through the lens of Traditional Chinese medicine; which is based on a view of the body and healing mechanisms not always studied or supported by modern science. Today, some prominent tai chi teachers have advocated subjecting tai chi to rigorous scientific studies to gain acceptance in the West. Researchers have found that long-term tai chi practice shows some favorable but statistically insignificant effects on the promotion of balance control, flexibility and cardiovascular fitness and reduced the risk of falls in elderly patients.The Chinese art of Tai Chi can be seen in practice by millions of seniors.It can also lead to glaucoma later in life.
The studies also show some reduced pain, stress and anxiety in healthy subjects. Other studies have indicated improved cardiovascular and respiratory function in healthy subjects as well as those who had undergone coronary artery bypass surgery. Patients that suffer from heart failure, high blood pressure, heart attacks, arthritis, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's, and Alzheimer's may also benefit from tai chi. However, a thorough review of most of these studies showed limitations or biases that made it difficult to draw firm conclusions on the benefits of Tai Chi.There have also been indications that tai chi might have some effect on noradrenaline and cortisol production with an effect on mood and heart rate. However, as with many of these studies, the effect may be no different than those derived from other types of physical exercise.
In one study, tai chi has also been shown to reduce the symptoms of Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in 13 adolescents. The improvement in symptoms seem to persist after the tai chi sessions were terminated. T'ai Chi's gentle, low impact movements burn more calories than surfing and nearly as many as downhill skiing. In addition, a pilot study, which has not been published a peer-reviewed medical journal, has found preliminary evidence that tai chi and related qigong may reduce the severity of diabetes.
Medical science remains unclear about exactly how Tai Chi works. While several studies have documented its benefits, none have completely explained why or how it works¡ªat least in the context of Western medicine. But there are theories. While traditional practitioners might attribute the health benefits to the free flow of chi, Western-world scientific research into Tai Chi is finding other possible explanations for its salutary effects. For instance:
Deep breathing promotes relaxation, stress reduction and concentration.
Focused attention not only relaxes the body and mind, it helps cultivate mental alertness.
The exercises strengthen muscles and bones (for instance, as a weight-bearing exercise that requires you to support your weight while standing, Tai Chi is a good preventive measure for osteoporosis).
Since most of the movements involve alternating weight-bearing in the legs, Tai Chi helps cultivate better balance by improving coordination and control of the body during movements.
