Gentle Motion. . .
Most people recognize that exercise is one of the best ways to boost cardiovascular health. But what if traditional exercise seems either too challenging or otherwise inaccessible — or maybe even boring? Or perhaps you’re recovering from a heart attack or other medical problem and need to ease back into activity. If so, tai chi might be worth a try.
“Tai chi is a gentle, adaptable practice that features flowing movements combined with breathing and cognitive focus. The cardiovascular benefits likely stem from a combination of the physical and mental aspects of this ancient Chinese practice. Like yoga, tai chi is a mind-body practice that requires focused attention as you move through a series of choreographed moves. Many have descriptive names that evoke scenes from nature, such as “wave hands like clouds” or “the white crane spreads its wings.” Concentrating on that imagery, along with your breathing and movements, counteracts what Asian meditative traditions call “monkey mind” — the distracting mental chatter that often intrudes when people do traditional meditation. In this way, tai chi can foster relaxation and ease stress. Tai chi also teaches you to pay close attention to your posture, breathing, and heart rate.
An article published online July 3, 2023, by Cardiology in Review considered the heart-related benefits of tai chi. Many studies have documented improvements in blood pressure after just eight to 12 weeks of practicing tai chi, including among older, sedentary adults and heart attack survivors. There’s also good evidence that tai chi can be an effective alternative for people who don’t want to do traditional cardiac rehabilitation (a structured program of exercise and education for people recovering from heart-related problems). In addition, tai chi has proved helpful for people with heart failure, who tend to be tired and weak as a result of the heart’s diminished pumping ability.
Tai chi can be a gateway to other types of physical activity because the practice may improve balance, reduce the risk of falls, and even help ease lower back pain — a common reason for avoiding exercise. “More fundamentally, the fitness gains and self-awareness from tai chi training can give people the confidence to engage in other physical and social activities that can enhance health.
It is possible to learn tai chi yourself using books and videos, but most practitioners recommend that you join a reputable class and learn from an experienced teacher. People of all ages and fitness levels can practice tai chi and gain health benefits. It is non-competitive and gentle. The ‘no pain, no gain’ philosophy of some other forms of exercise has no place in tai chi. If it hurts, you’re trying too hard. The idea is to relax, settle in and enjoy the peaceful movement.
Peace and Love, Jim
#taichi #thedailybuddha
Buy Me A Coffee – A Easy Way To support The Daily Buddha!
