Tai Chi, Your Body and Your Mind

Exercise and fitness

You’ve probably seen the images – extremely graceful, flowing, dance-like movements that are designed to condition and balance the body and reduce stress.

It’s called Tai Chi – a form of mind-body exercise that was originally developed in China more than 2000 years ago as a martial art form.

The benefits of Tai Chi? There are many, including the following:

Psychological – Research shows that those who practice Tai Chi demonstrate increased relaxation, better sleep patterns, reduced stress, improved self-esteem and mood, increased feelings of self-awareness and, because it is generally practiced in a group setting, many report increased sociability and a better disposition.

Musculoskeletal – Those who practice Tai Chi report improved physical strength, posture, flexibility, muscle tone and strength and decreased bone loss as they age, especially in women.

Cardiopulmonary – Tai Chi produces a decrease in blood pressure and more effective breathing.

Physical – Many who practice Tai Chi experience increased energy, improved immune function, relief from chronic pain symptoms, and better balance and motor coordination.

The practice of Tai Chi is beneficial to all, but particularly for seniors who require simple movements and a slower pace in their exercise routine. Many older individuals report fewer falls because of better balance.

The March-April 2006 issue of Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine published the results of a study, which found that Tai Chi helped to improve balance, muscle strength, endurance and flexibility in only six weeks; additional improvements were noted after 12 weeks. The research concluded that Tai Chi is a “potent intervention” that may facilitate the reversal of certain limitations and help older individuals to continue living on their own longer.

There are many ways to improve your body and your mind, including regular chiropractic care, proper diet and nutrition, and exercise and fitness. All contribute to help make a healthier you!

Dr Vana Asks some important questions of interest to Moline residents - Chiropractor Moline Dr Vana Asks...

What's a side effect?
It may sound like a bonus; something extra, but chiropractors know it should more accurately called an "unintended effect," and "unwanted effect" or in some cases an "adverse effect." A pill can't come close to matching your body's ability to create and deliver the essential compounds it needs. That's when it's important to make sure your nervous system is working correctly—the purpose of chiropractic care!
What's your plan to deal with drug-resistant 'super germs'?
Chiropractors have always been concerned with the indiscriminate use of antibiotics, accelerating the mutation of microbes that make "wonder" drugs increasingly ineffective. My strategy? Do everything possible to bolster my immune system through proper diet, rest, exercise, clean air, pure water and an optimally functioning nervous system with regular chiropractic care.