The results of this study suggest that the practice of Tai Chi provides several benefits that improve physical health and mental state among community elderly population at risk of ischemic stroke. Participants reflected a number of benefits, including relieved pain, improved sleep quality, enhanced digestion, strengthened immunity, enhanced energy, relieved breathless, reduced anxiety, improved concentration and promoted interpersonal relationship. In addition, they also expressed the view that Tai Chi was an appropriate exercise for the elderly. This findings indicate that Tai Chi is a beneficial and feasible exercise that improve body-mind health among community elderly population.

This study was conducted with participants from a trial examining the effects of a 12-week Tai Chi training on ischemic stroke risk in community older adults (n = 170). A total of 20 participants were randomly selected from a convenience sample of participants who had completed 12-week Tai Chi training (n = 68) were interviewed regarding their perceived benefit on physical and mental health and whether Tai Chi exercise was suitable for the elderly. 

All participants agreed that Tai Chi training could relax their body and make them comfortable. Most of them thought Tai Chi training could promote physical health, including relieving pain, enhancing digestion, strengthening immunity, enhancing energy and improving sleep quality, enhancing their mental and emotional state (e.g. improving mood and reducing anxiety, improving concentration and promoting interpersonal relationship). Most of participants also agreed that Tai Chi exercise was appropriate for community older people. Three primary themes emerged from content analysis: Improving physical health; Enhancing mental and emotional state; Conforming with the request of the elderly. 

The findings indicate that regular Tai Chi exercise may have positive benefits in terms of improved physical health and mental state among community elderly population, and may be useful and feasible body-mind exercise to community elderly population for its positive effects and advantages. 

Results like these don't just come from waving your arms around and zoning out in the park for 10 minutes a day 

 

If you want to be healthy & strong again, there's work you have to do, and skills you have to learn. 

 

But it doesn't have to be hard, either. 

 

We've put together a guide you can follow, and in just a few weeks you'll see undeniable results!