Tai chi’s energy healing techniques may help COPD patients
Monday, 30 April 2012
Tai chi's energy healing techniques may help COPD patients.
More than 12 million Americans live with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), a condition that blocks the airways and makes breathing difficult, according to the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute. Although there are some medications that could manage symptoms, regular physical activities, such as Dahn Yoga and tai chi, may help condition the body to use oxygen more efficiently.
"Tai chi and qi gong are some of the many activities I encourage people with COPD to do," Chelsea Randall, M.S., OTR/L, an occupational therapist at National Jewish Health in Denver, told Everyday Health.
Not only does tai chi provide exercise, but it leads patients to take a more focused approach to their breathing.
One previous study published in the journal Complementary Therapies in Medicine suggested that the energy healing techniques of tai chi improved the breathing ability and activity capacity of COPD patients, according to the news source.
Individuals who need to have oxygen tanks should look into hands-free carriers, Randall said.
There are other physical adjustments COPD patients may need to make when exercising. These include warming up properly, taking regular breaks, avoiding outbursts of energy in order to maintain a steady pace and not exercising outdoors when it is hot.
No. 1 — May 5th, 2012 at 8:14 am
I was quite surprised at the focus Tai Chi actually brings to oneself during the practice. I was also surprised at how good I felt afterwards. I highly recommend this form of exercise in addition to yoga for ultimate health.