Tai Chi for Mental Health and Cognition

Mental health disorders and dementia have been identified as national and international health priority areas. Globally, depression is estimated to be the number one cause of disability in both developed and developing countries by 2030. As the ageing population expands rapidly, dementia is emerging as one of the fastest growing sources of major disease burden and the leading cause of disability in the elderly population.

A recent systematic review of 17 randomised control trials has concluded that Tai Chi is effective in improving mental health and wellbeing, and reducing stress, anxiety and depression. There is also growing evidence that Tai Chi is effective in reducing the risk of cognitive decline and dementia, and contributes to cognitive improvement. A recent systematic review of 11 randomized control trials concluded that Tai Chi significantly improved executive function and global cognitive function.

Based on the compelling research evidence, informed by exercise science and guided by exercise prescription principles and safety guidelines, ©the Tai Chi for Mental Health and Cognitive Improvement Program, also known as ©Tai Chi for Mental Health and Cognition, is designed to achieve mental and physical relaxation; reduce stress, anxiety and depression; facilitate motor skills and motor sequence learning and executive control; prevent cognitive decline and dementia; reduce disability and behavioural and psychological symptoms; and improve functional abilities and the quality of life.