Tai Chi helps with health
TOOWOOMBA practitioners of Tai Chi are helping to reduce medical bills, according to a recent survey.
The survey of 1334 members of the non-profit Taoist Tai Chi Society of Australia, showed they reported better balance, less pain, reduced medication and reduced use of public health services.
Member of the local Toowoomba branch Trish Prince agreed with the findings.
“In May 2003, I had a stroke that left me in hospital for three months,” she said.
“After leaving hospital and having outpatient therapy, I had suffered pain and discomfort in my right shoulder continuously. Over the following years I used muscle gels and remedial massages. Any relief was only short term.”
Trish (along with her husband) started Tai Chi in May 2015 and within a short period of time noticed the deep ache was gradually easing. Three years on, Trish no longer requires remedial massages nor muscle gel.
“My balance is also better,” she added.
Trevor Howard, of the Toowoomba Osteopath Centre, agreed Tai Chi was beneficial for health.
“Tai Chi is a very good way for patients with chronic ailments to exercise in a symmetrical way for balance and strength,” he said.
“I have suggested Tai Chi to patients as a safe way of maintaining body awareness and combating back problems from sitting at desks all day.”
Senior instructor Dr Peter Cook said the data provided a compelling snapshot of how Tai Chi can improve individual physical and mental health and reduce health costs.
“Tai Chi is a lifestyle intervention which is win-win for both individuals and the budget bottom line,” he said.
“These ancient Taoist arts of movement and meditation are showing a way to not only improve health but also cut health bills. This shows how individuals can do something practical to maintain and recover their own health, within a supportive community.”
A copy of the full survey results is available at www.taoist.org.au/