Baby boomers are enjoying a fulfilling, varied and active lifestyle - and are keen to maintain their health to continue it.

The ancient Chinese art of tai chi is proving successful in contributing to improving health and well-being, especially for those aged 60+.

The benefits of tai chi are many and far-reaching, including the promotion of healthy brain cells to aid in the prevention of dementia and Alzheimer's disease. The causes of these conditions are still relatively unknown, apart from genetics and the aging process.

Tai chi is a set of movements that are performed slowly and smoothly. The set of movements is called a “form” and there are many different forms. 

Tai chi forms are simply a collection of controlled and precise movements, linked together to develop a sequence. A form can have as few as four movements, while an experienced practitioner may undertake a form compromised of over 100 movements.

Each of the tai chi movements is an exercise in balance, co-ordination, physical control and the regulation of breathing. The practice of these movements involves using both left and right sides of the brain, together with body co-ordination.  

Mental awareness is necessary to perform the sequences and it’s the synchronicity of mind and body, of learning combined with physical activity, leading to improved supplies of both blood and nutrients to the brain that is thought to be key in maintaining and improving brain, as well as physical, health.

Physically, the forms increase strength and make the body suppler. Blood circulation is improved and the flow of “chi” or energy around the body boosts the immune system.

Tai chi also increases strength and stamina, while the gentle nature of the exercise promotes natural deep breathing, inducing calm and delivering oxygen more efficiently to the brain, thought to be another factor in promoting healthy brain cells and delaying their degeneration.

Gentle Tai Chi, recommended for those of more mature years who are just beginning this form of exercise, also has benefits for joint problems: because of improved circulation, vital nutrients are delivered to cartilage gently and without the force exerted by other forms of exercise.

Debbie Pentland, a fitness instructor for 16 years, specializes in working with baby boomers and older age groups; she became a trainer for tai chi when she realized the range of health benefits it offers. She is a passionate advocate for tai chi, especially for the more mature age group. Debbie teaches the 12-movement form, which she finds is ideal for her students. As an experienced teacher, Debbie has added some adaptations of her own.

She finds the positive feedback she receives from every class is a true motivator.

“The benefits for a baby boomer, or older people, are huge,” says Debbie. “A movement as simple as walking backwards improves balance and reduces the chances of falling.” She goes on to explain that very gentle turning movements slowly turn the spine, working on the central nervous system, which aids relaxation. Other movements in this form improve circulation and help to stabilize blood pressure. As well as strengthening bones and muscles, Debbie’s students report improved heart and lung function as well as better sleep patterns.

Norma Rulf, 65, has been practising Gentle Tai Chi for the past 18 months.

Norma was diagnosed with asthma and emphysema (fluid on the lungs) just over two years ago and was given a number of information leaflets to help herself in slowing the progression of her condition. She finds the breathing exercises very beneficial, and enjoys being in a group situation. “I practise at home on my own,” she says, “but I also enjoy this form of exercise in a group situation with like-minded people.” Norma tried yoga and Pilates, but finds that tai chi gives her the most benefit for her condition.

Seventy-one-year-old Angela Lindsay has been a member of a tai chi group for three years. She heard about it from her walking group and, determined to maintain her good health as she grows older, went along. She was keen to improve her posture and help a back problem. Angela says, “The feel-good factor after a session of tai chi cannot be overestimated.” Like Norma, Angela feels that learning together in a friendly group is much more beneficial than trying to do it alone.  An unexpected bonus has been the friendly advice from other members of the group on all aspects of good health.

The participants in Norma and Angela’s group range in age from early 60s to well into their 80s. The exercises can be done sitting down, if necessary, and even those in wheelchairs can derive benefit. 

Angela stresses that they follow the Gentle Tai Chi program, which as she says, may not be enough for younger people, “but it suits us perfectly!”

In Western culture, it may be difficult to believe that these slow movements will produce the health benefits people seek. Having been exhorted to undertake vigorous aerobic exercise since the late 1960s, with Jane Fonda later encouraging everyone to “go for the burn,” it takes a shift in perspective to realize that the slow and gentle movements of tai chi are a potent weapon against aging.   

The Chinese believe so strongly in the benefits of tai chi’s contribution to a long and happy life that a simplified form is part of their national curriculum.

JANUARY 2011 SENIOR LIVING MAGAZINE VANCOUVER ISLAND