Effects of Tai Chi on psychological well-being
Researchers from Tufts University School of Medicine, in Boston, reviewed the evidence supporting this low impact mind-body exercise.
First, the details.
- 40 studies totaling 3817 people were identified.
And, the results.
- In 23 of 33 studies, participants were assigned to a treatment group that included 1 hour to 1 year of regular Tai Chi, with the following significant results in community-dwelling healthy participants and in patients with chronic conditions.
- Increased psychological well-being
- Reduced stress, anxiety, and depression
- Enhanced mood and emotion
- 7 observational studies with relatively large populations reinforced the beneficial association between Tai Chi practice and psychological health.
- In an observational study, assignment of participants to a treated or comparison group is outside the control of the researcher .
The bottom line?
After 40 studies, the authors still want more. You know the old saying, “If your a hammer, everything looks like a nail.” Well, if your a researcher, everything looks like it needs…
However, they concluded, “Tai Chi appears to be associated with improvements in psychological well-being including reduced stress, anxiety, depression and mood disturbance, and increased self-esteem.”
5/22/10 11:59 JR