The Effects of Tai Chi and Qigong on Anxiety and Depression

Tai Chi and Qigong are self-healing and self-cultivating exercises practiced by the Chinese for thousands of years. While they differ in their origins, both Tai Chi and Qigong involve slow, formalized routines of musculoskeletal relaxation and contraction, with symmetrical, balanced postures and movements frequently coordinated with diaphragmatic breathing control, all to be done in a meditative state of mind. There have been increasing reports on the positive psychological effects of Tai Chi and Qigong among healthy people and those with chronic illnesses. While more well-designed studies are needed to provide stronger evidence and a better understanding of how meditative movements affect the body, the brain, and the mind, Tai Chi and Qigong have gained increasing popularity worldwide as a form of self-cultivating exercise. These meditative movements have the potential to play a role in the prevention and/or treatment of anxiety and depression.