Taking part in Tai Chi could help to combat depression, new research claims.

 

最新研究表明，打太极拳能帮助对抗抑郁。

 

Going to classes in the ancient Chinese martial¹ art for 12 weeks significantly reduced symptoms of the blues².

 

It can work independently of treatment, suggesting it can scupper the need for an antidepressant prescription³, the small study shows.

 

The findings hold promise amid soaring rates of depression worldwide, with drugs and therapy often proving ineffective.

 

The meditative⁴ practice, which has been used for more than 1,000 years, combines deep breathing and slow and gentle movements.

 

Previous research has shown Tai Chi makes the brain bigger and improves memory and thinking - possibly delaying the onset⁵ of dementia.

 

The devastating⁶ neurological condition is associated with increasing shrinkage of the brain, as nerve cells and their connections are gradually lost.

 

Tai Chi has also been linked with reducing high blood pressure and relieving symptoms of cancer, heart failure, osteoarthritis and chronic⁷ obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

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