The practice of tai chi and qigong helps individuals that have been experiencing balance disorders, build thier proprioception (awareness of joints and limbs), begin to find their center of gravity and strengthen and align their body and mind for more secure and balanced movements.

Anyone who has had a fall or who has instability has what is commonly called a fear of falling. This fear of falling is one of the biggest predictors of a fall. By making a client firmer on their feet, tai chi and qigong can take away that fear. These balancing activities also makes the client more aware of both their internal body and the external world, giving them a better sense of position in space, so they won’t be as likely to trip and fall if they try to simultaneously talk to a friend and walk up some stairs.

With its integrative approach that strengthens the body while focusing the mind, tai chi and qigong addresses a range of physical and mental health issues including bone strength, joint stability, cardiovascular health, immunity, and emotional well-being. Tai chi is especially useful for improving balance and preventing falls which is a major concern for older adults.

Studies have shown tai chi to reduce falls in seniors by up to 49%. It can also improve balance in people with neurological problems. A recent study in The New England Journal of Medicine found the program particularly effective for balance in people with Parkinson’s disease.

Tai chi and qigong helps improve balance because it targets all the physical components needed to stay upright, develop leg strength, flexibility, range of motion, and reflexes that all of which tend to decline with age.

Call us today to join a class or to work privately to improve your balance and get stronger!