Benefits of Tai Chi
Hester Hill Schnipper, LICSW, OSW-C Program Manager, Oncology Social Work
JUNE 28, 2017
I know very little about Tai Chi, but, after reading this article from BreastCancer.org, I am a little better informed. I know that many cancer support organizations offer this ancient Chinese exercise, and I know that it is said to be a unique form of gentle exercise, focus, and meditation.
This article reports a study from The Journal of Clinical Oncology that found Tai Chi to be as effective as CBT in reducing insomnia in women who had been treated for breast cancer. I recognize that those are not exactly earth-shattering results, but most similar findings turn out to be equally useful for people who have had other cancers and, perhaps, for other issues.
Here is the start and a link to read more:
Tai Chi Helps Ease Insomnia in Breast Cancer Survivors
Occasionally having trouble sleeping is normal for most people. Everyday
stress, heartburn, or too much caffeine or alcohol all can make it hard to
fall asleep.
Insomnia is different. If you frequently can't fall asleep, can't stay
asleep, or don't get enough sleep to be rested, you may have insomnia.
Insomnia can affect your mood and energy levels, cause fatigue, and make it
hard to think and concentrate.
The stress of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment, as well as some of
the treatments themselves, and certain pain medicines can cause insomnia.
Cognitive behavioral therapy, a specific type of talk therapy where you
talk with a counselor in a structured way, is considered the best treatment
for insomnia.
A study has found that tai chi, an exercise that combines slow movements
with meditation and breathing techniques, is just as effective as cognitive
behavioral therapy in easing insomnia in women who have been treated for
breast cancer.
Read more: http://www.breastcancer.org/research-news/tai-chi-helps-ease-insomnia