Tai Chi / Qigong

Overview 

Tai Chi can be good for your health – whether you are just beginning an exercise program, are restricted by a medical condition, or are in peak physical health. This low-impact exercise is often combined with Qigong to increase vital energy and help the body heal itself. Tai Chi has been shown to improve strength, range of motion, and overall physical function. Research indicates it may also have beneficial effects for some clinical conditions.

Principles

Tai Chi, which is rooted in martial arts, involves slow, continuous movement through a series of postures or forms. There are 108 different forms. Each involves motion, leading Tai Chi to sometimes be referred to as moving meditation.

Tai Chi is often practiced in combination with Qigong. Dynamic or active qigong techniques primarily focus on body movements, especially movements of the whole body or arms and legs. Meditative or passive qigong techniques can be practiced in any posture that can be maintained over time and involve breath and mind exercises, with almost no body movement.

Conditions

Research indicates that Tai Chi may contribute to the following:

• Reduced falls among older adults and people with Parkinson’s disease
• Reduced pain scores for people with fibromyalgia, as well as help with improved sleep quality, relief from fatigue, reduced depression, and increased quality of life
• Reduced pain and stiffness in knee osteoarthritis
• Improved exercise capacity, lung function, and quality of life in people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
• Improved aerobic capacity among people with coronary heart disease when compared to active interventions (e.g., walking, stretching) and nonactive interventions (e.g., usual medical care)

In 2019, the American College of Rheumatology osteoarthritis guideline recommended Tai Chi for self-management of knee and hip osteoarthritis.

Services

Tai Chi classes

Price

Susan Samueli Integrative Health Institute accepts a variety of insurance plans or private pay. Your visit may be subject to copay and deductible. Please contact us at 949.824.7000 for more information.