Tai chi reducing depressions and strengthening the esteem

According to a study done by Dr Wang Chenchen and his team from the Tufts University of Massachusetts, people, who practice the tai chi, can reduce his depression symptoms and strengthen his self esteem.

The tai chi is a gym exercise which consists to reproduce the movement of the chinese martial art but in slow motion. Its translation means “supreme ultimate fist” and in fact, it is considered as a soft martial art style in which the goal is to calm the body and mind when stressed, by definition to master the stress. Moreover, the physical movements are used to defend oneself by deflecting and redirecting the acts of the opponent.

The conclusion of the scientists was made after examining the results of more than 40 studies about the effects of this practice on the psychological well being. Indeed, the fact to execute those movements with great precision, they have been able to reduce the stress and the anxiety including the depression symptoms thus increasing the self esteem.

In spite of this great news, scientists can’t yet confirm it because it still misses a convincing proof. According to them, it will be possible to explain the biologic mechanisms between the body and the mind with a knowledge more detailed about the physiological and psychological effects of the tai chi. Moreover, it will allow investigations on new directions, especially for the treatment of the chronic diseases.

July 8, 2010