It is particularly popular
in China where many flock to public parks to start their
day with the slow, methodical movements.
It is designed to
promote relaxation and improve balance, strength and
suppleness.
Researchers looked at
the results of 40 studies on the effects of the martial
art.
They found that it did
have positive psychological effects, but called for more
thorough research.
Dr Chenchen Wang, from
Tufts Tufts University School of Medicine in
Massachusetts, said: "Tai Chi ... has been practised for
centuries for health and fitness in the East and is
currently gaining popularity in the West.
“It is believed to
improve mood and enhance overall psychological well
being, but convincing evidence has so far been lacking".
She added: "More
detailed knowledge about the physiological and
psychological effects of Tai Chi exercise may lead to
new approaches to promote health, treat chronic medical
conditions, better inform clinical decisions and further
explicate the mechanisms of successful mind-body
medicine".
Previous studies have
suggested that it could be helpful in the treatment of
arthritis, but the results were unclear.
