As martial arts go, none has been found to have more health benefits than Tai Chi. Once taught as a form of self-defense, it more well-known today for its healing powers. Tai Chi to reverse the effects of arthritis is amazing. Through focus on achieving a perfect balance of both mind and body, this martial art promotes both mental and physical strength and health in ways that can leave the practitioner feeling far more energized both physically and mentally.
According to a recent article in the Harvard Health newsletter, there have been numerous studies completed that prove Tai Chi to be an effective form of therapy for a number of different medical conditions. Among these you will find mental issues such as depression and stress as well as physical maladies such as arthritis and recovery from breast cancer.
Part 2 of a Video on the History of Tai Chi and other Chinese Martial Arts:
Tai Chi to reverse the effects of arthritis
The leader of this study, Leigh Callahan, PHD an associate professor at the school and member of the Thurston Arthritis Research Center reports that their study found that Tai Chi classes such as those held in Portland, Oregon can offer significant benefits to patients who suffer from a wide variety of the different types of arthritis including rheumatoid, osteoarthritis and fibromyalgia.
In a completely separate study it was found that deep mediation such as is practiced in Tai Chi Chuan can actually help to slow down the progression of the disease Ankylosing Spondylitis. This one of the most painful and inflammatory forms of arthritis known to the medical community and one that is most often treated using extremely strong medications which can have some very miserable side effects.
The benefits from Tai Chi continues to be discovered by the medical community as more research is being conducted and people are reaping the benefits of this ancient practice. Strangely enough this is something that Chinese holistic medicine practitioners have known for centuries, however the world of western medicine is still trying to understand and incorporate into the treatment of their patients.
Tai Chi can be used to treat anxiety attacks