This Mind-Body Exercise Boosts Mood & Outlook For Cardiovascular Patients

Tai chi is a form of mindful movement paired with breath that originated in China thousands of years ago. Today, along with other movement practices like yoga and qigong, it's practiced around the world and celebrated for its many benefits including easing low-back pain1, improving balance and stability, and reducing stress2.

This research was a combined analysis of past clinical trials that studied the effects of tai chi on quality of life for people with heart diseases such as coronary heart disease, hypertension, etc. For the research, a total of 15 clinical trials were analyzed, spanning data on 1,853 patients with an average age of 66. Fifty-six percent of the participants were men, and forty-four percent were women.

Based on the analysis, tai chi correlated with less psychological distress as well as reduced depression—two issues that are common for heart disease patients. It also seemed to improve overall quality of life for patients.

Cardiovascular diseases—like other chronic illnesses—often bring with them a myriad of negative symptoms, both physical and mental. Psychological distress is not uncommon, and as such, it's important for patients to seek out gentle activities to improve their overall quality of life. As studios around the country begin to open back up, patients can consider signing up for classes in their area. (If you're new to the practice, you'll want to learn from an instructor to prevent injury.) Once you get the hang of the movements, consider checking out online classes like mindbodygreen's The Complete Guide to Tai Chi with Michael Taylor.