May 4, 2005

Learning tai chi for balance, concentration and relaxation

By Kyle Elliott
Special to the Times

Have you ever seen people in the park exercising together with slow, flowing movements and wondered what they are doing?

Chances are they are practicing an ancient form of Chinese martial arts called tai chi chuan, or simply tai chi. This is a soft or “internal” martial art, practiced both for its health benefits and self-defense. The gentle, smooth, circular movements flow toward internal balance, and though concentration is required the total effect is relaxing to the body and mind.

The health benefits of tai chi go beyond simple stress relief, according to Chinese medicine. This practice of medicine is based on the philosophy that life force—chi—flows through our bodies and can become blocked for many reasons.

When the chi becomes blocked illness and disease follow. Many modalities of traditional Chinese medicine (such as acupuncture) focus on restoring health by returning this natural flow of life energy. As an “internal” martial art, tai chi chuan centers on focusing this energy, allowing it to flow through your body unimpeded.    

Even if you don’t subscribe to the Chinese philosophy of medicine and health, tai chi chuan as an exercise imparts many health benefits, especially since the controlled movements allow people of any physical ability to participate.

From the standpoint of Western medicine, this gentle exercise, practiced regularly, has been shown to help prevent or relieve arthritis, improve balance and coordination, sharpen mental focus, decrease blood pressure and lower cholesterol.  

The improved balance and strength can also help prevent injury from falls, which is one of the most common causes of hip fracture in the elderly. In fact, a study* published in the Journal of the American Geriatric Society showed that elderly patients who took a 15-week tai chi program reduced their falls by 47.5 percent.

Another positive aspect of tai chi is the simplicity of beginning the practice! No equipment or gym membership is necessary because, weather permitting, many instructors conduct classes outside at local parks or community centers.

The enjoyment of nature and exercise in fresh air impart a sense of wellbeing, which does much to improve mood and combat depressive symptoms. Essentially, tai chi chuan’s practice of mental focus, gentle movements and breathing techniques can be practiced by anyone who makes the time to go to the park and enjoy the day.

Now if you see those people moving slowly in the park, there is no more need to wonder what they are doing! They are improving their strength, coordination, balance and overall health through the practice of tai chi chuan. 

Dr. Kyle Elliott received his bachelor of science degree in physiological science from UCLA, and his Doctor of Chiropractic degree from Palmer College of Chiropractic West. His private practice is currently accepting new patients, and is located at 3880 S. Bascom Ave. #117 in San Jose, or call (408) 559-1100. You can send questions to drkyle@chiropracticliving.com or his practice address. Dr. Elliott teaches tai chi classes in Los Gatos, and a class schedule is available upon request. This column is meant for dissemination of information and should not be taken as a substitute for treatment or the advice of your personal physician.

*Wolf, PhD. J. AM Geriatr Soc 1996;44:489-497