Why lowering blood pressure is better with tai chi than regular aerobics

Researchers also found greater reductions in the tai chi group when testing the volunteers’ blood pressure as they slept. In fact, a post-study follow-up showed that the tai chi group developed hypertension much later than those in the aerobic exercise group.

WHY IS THE STUDY SIGNIFICANT

The impact of tai chi, which began as a martial arts discipline, is felt most on systolic pressure or the top number on your BP monitor. This is the pressure in your arteries when your heart beats. The bottom number is the diastolic pressure or the pressure in your arteries when your heart rests between beats. A normal blood pressure level is less than 120 systolic over less than 80 diastolic (less than 120/80 mm Hg). You are considered hypertensive when your systolic reading is between 120-129 mm Hg and a diastolic pressure of 80-89 mm Hg. High means a systolic reading of 140 mm Hg or higher and a diastolic reading of 90 mm Hg or higher.

WHAT IS TAI CHI AND HOW DOES IT CURB HYPERTENSION?

As a holistic health expert, I would say tai chi comes closest to our yoga and combines slow, gentle movements with mindfulness. That’s why it is often referred to as meditation in motion.

It comprises super soft, subtle movements with almost zero intensity and gets your breath going in a rhythmic, slow and calm manner, relaxing you completely. Your heart and all other organs and functions become slow and rhythmic, synchronising your breath with movement. And because it is soft and fluid, it promotes relaxation and counteracts the physical effects of stress, including tense muscles and shallow respiration. In short, it activates the parasympathetic nervous system or the network of nerves that relaxes your body after periods of stress or danger. Also its slow, circular motions and gradual transitions between opposing postures allows the practitioner to develop a sense of both physical and mental balance. Since the movements are never forced, the muscles are relaxed, the joints and connective tissues are not stretched to their limit. This makes it accessible to all kinds of people, even patients who are recovering.

It is also easier to practise as it’s low impact, requires little space and zero-equipment. And for those who find exercising itself a burden, this option is a good place to begin.

WHY IS TAI CHI BETTER THAN OTHER MARTIAL ARTS?

Martial arts help you release tension by directing the energy into focussed movements whereas tai chi has a more calming style. Martial arts, despite having military beginnings, place a strong emphasis on mental toughness, self-improvement and self-control, which make them excellent friends in the fight against stress.