Tai Chi and Qigong Increases Brain Function
Posted by Annamarie Pamphilis on Oct 13, 2023 in Health Blog | 0 comments
In observance of the Fall season classes will focus on the Baduanjin Qigong with a little rattle or singing bowl thrown in. As we celebrate the change of seasons with our practices, it is good to know that these practices not only boost our immune system but increase our brain health. Now that’s good to know!
Please join me in practicing Medical Qigong Autumn 2023. Find my Qigong classes here.
Based on the recent science conference hosted by Harvard Medical School, it was reported “Tai Chi Chuan and Baduanjin increase grey matter volume in older adults: a brain imaging study”. The aim of the study is to investigate and compare how 12-weeks of Tai Chi Chuan and Baduanjin exercise can modulate brain structure and memory function in older adults. Magnetic Resonance Imaging(MRI) and memory function measurements (Wechsler Memory Scale-Chinese revised, WMS-CR)were applied at both the beginning and end of the study. Results showed that both Tai Chi Chuan and Baduanjin could significantly increase grey matter volume (GMV) in the insula, medial temporal lobe (MTL), and putamen after 12-weeks of exercise. No significant differences were observed in grey matter volume (GMV) between the Tai Chi Chuan and Baduanjin groups. We also found that compared to healthy controls, Tai Chi Chuan and Baduanjin significantly improved visual reproduction subscores on the WMS-CR. Baduanjin also improved mental control, recognition, touch and comprehension memory subscores of the WMS-CR compared to the control group. Memory quotient (MQ)and visual reproduction subscores were both associated with GMV increases in the putamen and hippocampus. Our results demonstrate the potential of Tai Chi Chuan and Baduanjin exercise for the prevention of memory deficits in older adults.
|
|
