Have you ever wondered how Tai Chi can reduce your risk of heart disease? Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, more of us are seeking ways to spend more time outside and improve our fitness. Everyone is aware of the need for exercise for a healthy heart. The issue is that it can be challenging to choose forms of exercise you find pleasant enough to continue doing as you get older or less physically inclined.
Every person with heart disease has heard the advice, “You need to stay active,” from their doctor.
Although Tai Chi may not appear to fall under this heading, it does. In reality, it goes above and beyond that. Tai chi is a gentle, graceful exercise that can raise your heart rate while calming your mind. It has been referred to as “meditation in motion”. Depending on the training technique, posture, and duration, the psycho-physiological exercise known as Tai Chi can range from light to medium intensity. As a national art of China, Tai Chi combines exercise, fitness, and health.
How does Tai chi reduce your risk of heart disease?
1. Enhances quality of life and reduces stress, anxiety, and depression
According to a recent study, the practice of Tai Chi enhances the quality of life and reduces stress, anxiety, and depression in people with heart problems. Both heart attacks and strokes may become more likely due to these issues. Tai chi’s flowing motions promote mindfulness, which reduces stress and enhances psychological well-being.
2. Lowers the blood pressure
Diaphragmatic breathing – a breathing technique specifically used in Tai Chi, temporarily relieves the heart’s workload and helps lower blood pressure. Research supports this as well. In a study with 208 participants who had slightly raised blood pressure, those who practised Tai Chi for three months saw a significant drop in blood pressure compared to those who didn’t.
3. Reduces cholesterol and Body Mass Index (BMI)
In a trial of obese patients with diabetes, Tai chi reduced cholesterol and Body Mass Index (BMI), a weight-to-height ratio used to describe obesity. C-reactive protein (CRP) – a biological indicator of inflammation, was also improved. These modifications are essential for improving your heart health!
4. Reduces the risk of heart failure
Tai chi is especially beneficial for heart failure patients who may experience fatigue and weakness due to their heart’s reduced ability to pump blood. The heart is strengthened without being stressed out by the gradual movements. If you’ve had a heart attack or other heart issue, Tai Chi might be a great way to heal. Make sure you have your doctor’s approval before starting this new exercise regimen.
Final Thoughts
Considering the numerous benefits of Tai Chi, many medical experts believe that people with heart problems can benefit from it. These movements not only lead to better results but also support people with heart disease in living a better quality of life. Experts emphasise that they are generally safe for people of all ages and fitness levels.
No special equipment is needed to do these exercises; they may be done indoors or outdoors. Therefore, traditional Chinese activities may be an excellent choice to improve health for individuals unable to engage in more strenuous exercise.
