Tai Chi lowers blood pressure as effective as medication

Tai Chi is an ancient art of gentle movement and mental focus. It has a long history in China, originally as a martial art and now as a longevity health practice. Known for the flowing and soft movements to lubricate joints, increase balance, and calm the nervous system.

The American College of Sports Medicine 2016 Annual Meeting presented the findings of 28 studies of tai chi consisting of over 1300 people.  The participants did tai chi for 60 minutes 3 times a week.  During this time, the average drop in systolic blood pressure was 6 mm Hg and in diastolic blood pressure was 3 mm Hg. “Reductions are comparable to first-line antihypertensive medications,” said Dr Pescatello. “They are consistent with what has typically been prescribed.”

Different blood pressure medications can have many side-effects.  This range from: dizziness, low blood pressure, erectile dysfunction, edema, foot pain, gout, dry-hacking cough, frequent urination, dry mouth, constipation, fatigue, headaches, and many more.  Tai chi offers a safe alternative to blood pressure medications.

Dr. Monte will be offering a tai chi and qi gong course this summer in Coeur d’Alene!  Stay tuned!

http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/864177