|
Health 52
Info Tip:
Tai Chi
Tai Chi, an ancient form of precise, flowing body movements that appear
effortless, is a way to tone and strengthen your muscles while relaxing your
body and mind.
It improves balance, posture, and, many believe, even medical conditions
relating to the cardiovascular and digestive systems.
The deep breathing associated with Tai Chi is believed to help lower stress
and stabilize blood pressure and respiration.
Tai Chi is considered an ideal activity for people of any age or fitness
level because it doesn’t rely on force, impact, speed or physical strength.
In fact, the National Institute on Aging suggests that the balance training
of Tai Chi helps reduce the risk of falling and the fear of falling among
senior citizens as it contributes to an overall sense of well being.
A study published in the British Journal of Sports suggests that Tai Chi
exercises performed on a regular basis may help to control type 2 diabetes,
which is associated with chronic inflammation caused by excessive glucose in
the blood.
The theory is that Tai Chi helps improve blood glucose metabolism, sparking
a drop in the inflammatory response.
As health-conscious adults look for new ways to spice up a
sometimes-monotonous fitness program, Tai Chi appears to be a safe and
effective activity on its own or as a complement to any fitness program.
Sources: sciencedaily.com, National Institute on Aging
|
