Tai chi is a a form of exercise, it combines gentle physical exercise and stretching with mindfulness.Originally used as a martial art is an ancient Chinese tradition it has evolved over centuries.

To its advocates, it has become a means of alleviating stress and anxiety, a form of “meditation in motion.” Its supporters claim that it promotes serenity and inner peace

Research can show that tai chi can improve balance control, fitness, and flexibility, and might cut the risk of falls in older people.It has been evidenced to reduce pain and with mindfulness playing a role with motion- can assist with mental wellbeing.

It is safe for people of all ages, as it does not put too much stress on the muscles and joints.

This article explores the documented evidence for the benefits of tai chi.

Benefits

Various research suggests the benefits of tai chi might include improved balance, pain management, and cognitive function in people with and without chronic conditions.

Other possible benefits include improved sleep quality and an enhanced immune system

Fall reduction

Tai chi showed some potential benefits for helping prevent trips and falls in older adults across a range of studies.

A 2012 review looked at 159 randomized controlled trials of various types of intervention that were intended to prevent falls in older people.

The studies involved more than 79,193 people, and the authors concluded that tai chi could reduce the risk of falling.

A 2015 systematic review of seven trials involving 544 tai chi chuan practitioners concluded it helped improve balance control and flexibility.

A 2014 Cochrane review found that exercises, including tai chi, might have reduced the fear of falling among older adults in a retirement community immediately after they did the workout. However, the review did not reach any conclusions about tai chi reducing the frequency of falls.

One 2012 trial of 195 older adults with Parkinson’s disease showed that tai chi helped treat balance issues with more success than resistance training or regular stretching.

Another article notes that tai chi is a successful exercise intervention for factors related to falls in older people.

The evidence from these studies seems to suggest that tai chi might help support many aspects of balance and posture.

Chronic pain

Several small studies suggest that tai chi can have a significant impact on the chronic pain experienced with specific conditions, such as osteoarthritis of the knee and fibromyalgia.