How does our sense of community impact our health?
A feeling of belonging and connection is an important aspect of our lives and is often what allows us to thrive. Social isolation and loneliness, however, can negatively impact our overall sense of well-being. In a recent review, it was highlighted that as many as 36% of people are living with this experience on a regular basis, especially in the elderly population. The impact of social isolation has been well studied and tends towards poorer health outcomes with possibly even increased hospitalizations.
How can Tai Chi make a difference?
All types of physical activity have been shown to improve our quality of life. Tai Chi has distinct advantages over others, however, and current research has started to study this phenomenon.
We have already learned of the consistent health benefits that Tai Chi offers in improving balance, co-ordination, mobility, strength and the reduction of falls. Activation of the parasympathetic nervous system as well as the cultivation of mindfulness have also shown to enhance mood and reduce stress.
New studies (using several quality-of-life scales) have now demonstrated that group Tai Chi greatly increases our personal self-esteem and self-confidence in managing our daily lives. Class participants attributed this to improved social support, emotional support, making new friends, and a sense of belonging. Some even felt that attending class with others gave a sense of purpose to their lives. A higher motivation and a greater commitment to continue with the practice over the long term was the result.
Because of these findings, participants felt the physiological health benefits of Tai Chi to be more profound and longer lasting. Participants with any chronic diseases, such as diabetes and heart conditions, were also better able to cope and self-manage since they were more engaged with their overall health.
Tai Chi classes that provided “enhancements” were shown to have the best health outcomes compared to regular classes. These “enhancements” included instructors who were able to offer some individual attention to participants, smaller class sizes (20 or so), regular tea breaks with time to socialize, peer gatherings outside of class time, and the presence of a health professional who could support those with individual health concerns.
What does this mean for those without easy access to Tai Chi classes?
Tai Chi has been shown to have a significant impact on our health as a result of social support and group experience. In today’s world, we may also consider online groups, classes, videos as well as social media as part of our Tai Chi community experience. Information on some in person classes from across the globe has intently been made available on our website www.taichimastermoy.org to help enhance your experience. Perhaps you may even choose to begin a class in your local area with one of your Tai Chi friends! Master Moy’s Tai Chi is available to anyone who wishes to learn and enjoy a wonderful quality of life!
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9836824/?utm_source=perplexity
Copyright ©️ 2024 Lila Zitouni
Translation by Jordi Awarita, Cathy Filion
Voilà un excellent texte motivant à commencer ou à poursuivre la pratique du tai chi. Merci beaucoup, j’ y trouve également des arguments solides pour persévérer.
Thanks for this.
This is such an important part of Tai Chi and our personal well-being. A sense of belonging comes quickly even after just a few group sessions. I also think that as we participate over time our community grows into strong friendships. Thank you Lila and to our community especially at this time of year.